Maria Sakkari equalized Russian and No. 84 tennis player in the world Varvara Gratseva in 2-0 sets (6-4, 6-2) to qualify for the quarterfinals of the Indoor 250 tournament in Austria.

After the game, the number 7 in the world appeared happy with her competitive and mental level whilst expressing her desire to improve her game even further in order to be able to challenge for the title in Leeds.

“It’s difficult to compete with someone for the first time. I have to get used to the fact that when you are in the highest places in the rankings, everyone is trying to bring their best tennis. Sometimes I can’t handle it on the pitch and I’m working on it and improving, I have to get used to that.

He played a very good game, especially the 1st set was very close, so I’m very happy I passed. I created more chances on my opponent’s serve today, but Friday’s game will be very difficult, so I’ll have to increase my game for this match, but there are also very difficult tournaments coming up in the next few weeks.

However, I think my game is already at a good level and I’m happy about that. I’m better spiritually too, I’m better than in Australia, I’m happy and I hope to stay longer here in Leeds.

Tomorrow I will definitely go for a walk, dress well and go for a walk with my team in the morning.” Finally, referring to the fact that the city is full of billboards with her face on, she said:

“I do not like that. I feel weird walking around and seeing myself on the posters. But we can talk and you tell me where you went because where I went wasn’t interesting.”