Maria Sakkari delighted the home crowd with a commanding performance on Monday, securing her place in the second round of the Vanda Pharmaceuticals Athens Open after defeating Polina Kudermetova 6-0, 6-4 at the Stadion Sports Center.
Competing in front of Greek fans, the tournament's biggest attraction produced an impressive display from the opening point, combining aggressive baseline tennis with remarkable consistency to take complete control of the match.
Sakkari dominated the opening set, allowing her opponent no room to settle into the contest. Applying constant pressure with her powerful groundstrokes and serving confidently, the Greek star raced to a flawless 6-0 "bagel" in just over half an hour.
Kudermetova responded with greater resistance in the second set, but Sakkari maintained her composure throughout. Despite the increased competitiveness of the rallies, the former World No. 3 remained firmly in control, capitalising on key opportunities to close out the match 6-4 and seal a straight-sets victory.
The win marks an ideal start for Sakkari at this year's Vanda Pharmaceuticals Athens Open, where she is aiming for a deep run in front of her home supporters.
She will face Harriet Dart in the second round.
Fans wishing to attend can purchase tickets throughathens-open.comandTicketmaster.
