Maria Sakkari showcased her strength at the 2025 US Open, defeating Hungary’s Anna Bondár in straight sets, 6/3 and 6/1, in the second round on Thursday, August 28, on Court 7 in New York. The Greek player, formerly ranked world number 3 and currently 64th, needed just over an hour to secure her place in the third round, marking her return to this stage of the American Grand Slam for the first time in four years. With a solid performance, Sakkari converted 6 of 9 break points and dominated service points, winning 73% of first-serve points. After a challenging season marked by injuries, the player showed signs of recovery, reigniting expectations for a standout campaign. The win sets up an electrifying third-round clash against Brazil’s Beatriz Haddad Maia.
The match against Bondár reflected Sakkari’s rebuilding phase. Despite an inconsistent start to the season, with only 7 wins in 19 sets since her return, the Greek found rhythm and confidence in New York. Her aggressive and precise game neutralized Bondár’s attempts, as the Hungarian committed 12 double faults and won just 48% of first-serve points. The crowd cheered Sakkari’s convincing performance, signaling a potential resurgence in the tournament.
- Match highlights:
- Sakkari converted 6 of 9 break points, showcasing efficiency.
- The Greek won 58 total points, compared to Bondár’s 43.
- Only 2 aces were recorded, but Sakkari excelled with consistent serving.
- Bondár struggled with 12 double faults, hampering her performance.
Sakkari’s path at the US Open now enters a new chapter, with a chance to advance further and regain ground in the world rankings.
Stellar performance on court
Maria Sakkari’s performance against Anna Bondár was marked by near-total control. From the start, the Greek set the pace, using her powerful forehand and agile movement to pressure her opponent. In the first set, Sakkari broke Bondár’s serve twice, closing the set 6/3 without facing major threats. The second set was even more dominant, with Sakkari converting three breaks and conceding just one game in under 30 minutes.
Anna Bondár, ranked 97th, found no answers to Sakkari’s aggressive play. Despite some intense rallies, Bondár made critical unforced errors, particularly in the second set, where her inconsistent serving was evident. Sakkari, meanwhile, stayed mentally sharp, maintaining focus even after minor slip-ups.
- Key statistics:
- 73% first-serve success rate for Sakkari, compared to Bondár’s 48%.
- Bondár’s 12 double faults significantly impacted her strategy.
- Sakkari won 63% of first-serve points, demonstrating solidity.
This victory reinforces Sakkari’s ability to rediscover her top form, especially in a tournament where she has had strong runs in the past.
Recovery journey after injuries
Maria Sakkari faced a challenging 2025, marked by a shoulder injury that sidelined her for four months in late 2024. The injury halted a career that saw her reach world number 3 in 2022, with 125 consecutive weeks in the top 10. Since her return, she struggled to string together consecutive wins until the US Open, making her current campaign even more significant.
In recent interviews, Sakkari emphasized the importance of being healthy again. The forced break, though tough, brought moments of reflection and a fresh perspective on her career. Now 29, Sakkari has been working with Dutch coach Raemon Sluiter since November 2024, aiming to rebuild confidence and consistency. The win over Bondár is a key step, showing she is regaining her competitive edge.
- Key recovery moments:
- Shoulder injury in 2024 led to a four-month hiatus.
- Return at the 2025 United Cup, with underwhelming initial results.
- First third-round appearance at the US Open since 2021.
- New coaching partnership aims to restore top-10 form.
The Greek now faces the challenge of maintaining momentum against tougher opponents, but her New York performance suggests she’s on the right track.
Third-round clash with Bia Haddad
In the third round, Sakkari will face Brazil’s Beatriz Haddad Maia, ranked 22nd, in a match set for Saturday, August 30. The head-to-head favors Haddad, whothar has won all four previous encounters, the most recent at the 2024 Madrid Open, 6/4, 6/4. Despite this, Sakkari enters the match with renewed confidence after two strong US Open wins.
Haddad also comes off a solid performance, defeating Switzerland’s Viktorija Golubic 6/1, 6/4 in the second round. The Brazilian, defending 430 points from last year’s quarterfinals, aims to maintain her ranking and match her best US Open result. The matchup promises to be a test of endurance and strategy, with Sakkari needing to counter Haddad’s aggressive style, which has proven effective against her.
- What to expect:
- Sakkari will rely on her power and consistent serving.
- Haddad holds a perfect record against Sakkari.
- The match will be on Court 7, with live coverage.
- Brazilian fans are expected to create a lively atmosphere.
The duel offers Sakkari a chance to reverse the head-to-head and prove she’s back at her best.
Significance of the US Open for Sakkari
The 2025 US Open is a critical opportunity for Maria Sakkari to climb the world rankings. Currently at 64th, she risks dropping further without a strong showing, especially after defending only 650 points from her Indian Wells runner-up finish earlier this year. A deep run in New York could boost her ranking and confidence for the rest of the season.
Sakkari has a history of shining in Grand Slams, reaching semifinals at Roland Garros and the US Open in 2021. Her experience on big stages could be a key advantage against players like Haddad, who is also aiming to solidify her place among the elite. Each win now is a step toward rebuilding her career.
- Factors at play:
- Sakkari’s physical recovery after a prolonged injury.
- Pressure to defend points and avoid a ranking drop.
- Grand Slam experience as a strategic edge.
The New York tournament is a chance for Sakkari to show she can still compete with the best, despite recent setbacks.
Fan reactions and expectations
Sakkari’s win over Bondár sparked excitement among fans, who are following her comeback journey. On social media, supporters praised her consistency and determination on court. The upcoming clash with Haddad is highly anticipated, with many calling it one of the third round’s most exciting matches.
Greek fans, in particular, hope Sakkari can recapture her 2021 and 2022 form, when she was a favorite in major tournaments. Meanwhile, Brazilian fans are rallying behind Haddad, setting the stage for a spirited rivalry. Sakkari’s performance so far suggests she’s ready for the challenge, but the balanced matchup promises to keep fans on edge until the final point.
- Fan reactions:
- Praise for Sakkari’s consistency in serving and returning.
- Anticipation for a competitive match against Haddad.
- Greek fans rallying for Sakkari’s comeback.
- Brazilian support for Haddad’s campaign in New York.
The 2025 US Open continues to be a stage for compelling stories, and Maria Sakkari is determined to write another chapter of success.