Maria Sakkari’s 2024 season has not been the breakthrough year she had hoped for. Despite possessing immense talent and physical prowess, the Greek tennis star has struggled to find success, even following a coaching change.
Her closest brush with success came with a final appearance at Indian Wells in March, but her performance in the Grand Slam tournaments this year has been disappointing. The 28-year-old’s form has been uninspiring, casting doubt over her readiness for the upcoming Wimbledon.
Sakkari’s recent exit in the first round of the Bad Homburg Open against world number 88 Jule Niemeier has further exacerbated concerns. Despite taking the first set, Sakkari was unable to maintain her form, ultimately losing in three sets to Niemeier, who has mostly competed on the ITF Circuit this year.
The match was overshadowed by a controversial incident where Sakkari accused the chair umpire of partiality towards Niemeier. During the decisive third set, a ball initially called out was subsequently overruled and deemed in. The chair umpire awarded the point to Niemeier rather than replaying it, leading to Sakkari’s frustrated outburst.
"It is all my judgement now," the umpire stated, to which Sakkari retorted, "Well of course, you’re German, you’re going to…"
Her insinuation of bias was met with boos and whistles from the crowd. Sakkari protested further: "You think I don’t know what’s happening here? You think I was born yesterday?"
Sakkari’s frustration and lack of form cast a shadow over her Wimbledon preparations. Historically, she has struggled in Grand Slam events, only twice advancing beyond the fourth round in her career. All indications suggest that Wimbledon will continue this troubling trend.
