Maria Sakkari’s Australian Open journey ended in disappointment as she fell to Colombia’s Camila Osorio in a grueling first-round match. The Greek star lost 6-4, 6-7(4), 6-4, marking an early exit from the year’s first Grand Slam.
Sakkari, returning from a five-month layoff due to a shoulder injury, struggled to find her rhythm in key moments. Despite her efforts, she couldn’t capitalize on opportunities to turn the match in her favor.
The opening set saw Osorio race to a 3-1 lead before Sakkari rallied to level the score at 3-3. However, a late break handed Osorio the set. Sakkari fought back in the second, demonstrating composure in the tiebreak to force a deciding set.
Both players made errors in the final set, but it was Osorio who seized the crucial break at 5-4 and served out the match to secure her victory. The Colombian, ranked No. 59, now advances to face Ons Jabeur in the second round.
Sakkari’s post-match reflections
Speaking to the press, the 29-year-old Sakkari expressed pride in her fighting spirit despite the loss.
“I’m very proud of myself for battling the way I did,” she said. “This was the best attitude and mindset I’ve had in a match in the last three years.”
While Sakkari admitted to feeling disconnected from her best tennis, she found solace in her ability to manage the match mentally. “There were moments where I felt like my old self, and that makes me happy,” she noted.
Her team echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of patience as she works her way back to peak form.
Sakkari also commented on her collaboration with coach Raymond Slaughter, who joined her team recently. “I’m very pleased with Raymond. He’s not just a great coach but also a great person, and that means a lot to me,” she shared.
Looking ahead, Sakkari acknowledged the need for time and more matches to regain consistency. “Everyone tells me to give myself time. Things are already better than they were a week ago, and I’ll keep building on that.”
A bright spot for Osorio
For Osorio, this win could mark a turning point. Her performance, described by Sakkari as “the match of her life,” showcased her potential to challenge higher-ranked players.
While it’s an early farewell for Sakkari in Melbourne, her determination to rebuild and her candid reflections offer hope for the season ahead.
