History was created this week in Mexico. Greek player Maria Sakkari finally laid her hands on her first WTA 1000 title at the Guadalajara Open. After a series of disappointing performances over the last few weeks, much was not expected from her due to her inconsistent runs. Despite the naysayers, she went ahead to stun everyone and clinch her first WTA title in four years. However, behind this triumphant win lies a rousing story of transformation, inspired by none other than another upcoming star in the making, Coco Gauff.

While her maiden WTA 1000 title triumph did make some noise among the tennis pros, former ace Chris Evert did not shy away from congratulating Sakkari while highlighting the important message delivered by Gauff.

Chris Evert approves of Maria Sakkari’s recognition of Coco Gauff’s words

Maria Sakkari’s journey to her first major WTA 1000 title at the Guadalajara Open was not only a triumph of skill but also a proof of the power of inspiration from her peers. Reflecting on her victory, Sakkari shared how what Coco Gauff said at the US Open resonated deeply with her. Gauff’s words reflected that there are greater challenges beyond tennis and losses are just a part of the game.

“I really liked what Coco [Gauff] said at the US Open, about how other people have bigger problems than we have when we lose a tennis match, and she’s spot on. I kept thinking about that, and that gave me strength,” said Sakkari in the interview with WTA Insider.

Chris Evert lauded Sakkari’s exceptional performance with a celebratory message on X (formerly, Twitter): “congratulations  @mariasakkari You showed everyone your strength and talent this week in Guadalajara! Keep the belief…” While congratulating Sakkari, Evert also said that the strength and passion that she earlier talked about was clearly witnessed in her performances throughout the tournament.

Thus, Chris Evert’s words reflect on the strength and perseverance that she showed throughout the tournament which helped her land he first ever WTA 1000 title. However, after securing an emphatic title win this week in Mexico at the Guadalajara Open, Sakkari dedicated her win to someone whom she cares for deeply.

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Maria Sakkari dedicates her WTA 1000 win to a special person

In the post-match ceremony, Maria Sakkari came ahead gracefully and dedicated her first-ever title to her grandfather. While giving a tribute to her late grandfather, who passed away last year, she became emotional. However, she further went ahead to thank her family members and also her grandmother, who was supporting her at home.

Thus, with the win, Sakkari has finally proven the potential that she possesses. With a bright future ahead of her, she would be willing to do whatever it takes to lay her hands on multiple trophies and carry forward her dominant run. Also, Chris Evert’s comments on the matter highlight a legend’s recognition of a true sportsman who looks to silence the critics. The question is, will she be able to translate this momentum into the 2024 season?

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