Maria Sakkari Opens Up About Feeling Vulnerable in the Public Eye: A Candid Reflection on the Challenges of an Athlete’s Life

Maria Sakkari, the rising star in the world of tennis, is not just battling it out on the court but also facing the intense scrutiny of millions of fans. In a recent interview with WTA Insider Podcast, Sakkari opened up about the challenges of being a professional athlete, emphasizing the pressure of performing in front of a global audience every day.

The Greek player recounted a controversial incident during the Indian Wells tournament last year, where she was accused of cheating by her opponent, Karolina Pliskova. The match took a dramatic turn when Sakkari’s racquet touched the ball before landing out of court, leading to a heated argument and a tense handshake after the match.

But the controversies didn’t end there for Sakkari. At the Canadian Open in 2023, she found herself in a clash with Danielle Collins, who told her to “shut her mouth” during a heated argument on court. Despite the challenges and criticisms, Sakkari continues to show her competitive spirit and resilience in the face of adversity.

Reflecting on these incidents, Sakkari highlighted the unique pressure athletes face in the spotlight, where every mistake or bad day is magnified by millions of spectators. While the taste of victory is sweet, the journey to get there is filled with obstacles and challenges that only the strongest can overcome.

As Sakkari continues to make headlines in Rome and progresses to the round of 16, her story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and struggles athletes endure in pursuit of their dreams.