Diana Schneider was a tough opponent for Maria Sakkari (favourite 6), but the experience of the athlete from Greece spoke for itself and she reached the third round of the Australian Open.

Maria SakkariPhoto: Ng Han Guan/AP/Profimedia

Maria Sakkari defeated Diana Schneider in three sets

Only 18 years old Schneider (106 WTA, started with qualification) started the match perfectly, won the first return game and was unable to catch up with Sakkari: 6-3 (the Russian saved the fifth ball of the set).

Maria looked to be recovering but was unable to break away in the second set and the Russian (who produced numerous impressive shots) saved three set points at 4-5 (0-40). Finally, Olena found the necessary resources and won the set in overtime: 7-5.

Sakkari played more and more accurately, Schneider was no longer at the same level (even if he still had flashes), and Maria finished the game after two hours and 35 minutes of play: 6-3.

Know:

  • In the next round, Maria Sakkari will play the winner of the match between Swiss Jill Teichmann (33 WTA, 32nd seed) and Chinese Lin Zhu (87 WTA).
  • Diana Schneider is a very good doubles player and has won three junior Grand Slams: Wimbledon (2021), Australian Open and US Open (2022).

Australian Open 2023 will be held from January 16 to 29. Ashley Barty (now retired from sports) and Rafael Nadal became the champions of the title.