On Monday (10/31) at midnight, Maria Sakkari is expected to start her attempt at the WTA Finals, which will be held in Texas, with Jessica Pegula (No. 3) being her first opponent.

The 27-year-old Greek woman spoke at the usual press conference and was questioned on a wide range of topics. The first, of course, was her presence in the top eight athletes for the second year in a row.

“All the girls here are excited because taking part in this tournament means you’ve had a good year. Being here for another year is a very good reward for the good seasons I’ve had. Personally, I am very excited that I managed to get the ticket for this tournament in such a mixed season. No matter what happens in the tournament, playing with the best players on the tour is amazing.” Sakkari said.

When asked if she was surprised that she finally managed to qualify, she said: “It didn’t surprise me that I qualified for the tournament. Last year I was constantly in the top places in the world rankings and nothing was given to me. I’ve struggled this year, but slowly I’ve managed to find a rhythm at the end of the season. I did a very good job in Guadalajara and I hope I can continue as strong in Texas. I deserve to be here.”

For January’s United Cup, in which Maria Sakkari will compete alongside Stefanos Tsitsipas, the leading Greek tennis player referred to the performances of the two but also the harsh criticism they are receiving.

“It’s a unique and special opportunity for the players who will take part in this tournament. I’m looking forward to Greece because it’s a small country but they have two great players. We’ll probably be at the top of the table when .” Me and Stefanos keep us so high in the rankings.

When that happens, it will be special for our country. I want people to remember this moment because he’s often very strict with me and Stefanos. We lost the finals we played a few weeks ago and people immediately forgot how much we achieved. Greece currently has two players in the top 5 in the world rankings. Have you ever imagined that?” he said characteristically.

Finally, when asked about Sfiodek’s extraordinary year, he said: “It’s no secret that Iga Šfiodek has played at a very high level all year. I respect her very much and I know that she respects me. It’s exciting to have someone like her, so young, doing the things she does. I know if she’s going to feel any pressure in this tournament, but we know for sure that all the rest of us really want to win it. All the players in the tournament have a lot of respect for her.”