Maria Sakkari is gearing up for a strong comeback in the 2026 tennis season, training intensively in Dubai alongside the trusted team that propelled her to a career-high world No. 3 ranking.
After a challenging 2025 season that fell short of her expectations and drew harsh online criticism, the Greek star remains determined. In an October post, she declared: "It was a difficult season… but good things are coming. See you in 2026," emphasizing that her drive comes from proving herself right, not silencing doubters.
The Proven Team Returns
Sakkari has reassembled the core group behind her greatest successes:
- Coach Tommy Hill: The British coach who first worked with her from 2018–2019 and again since April 2025 (after stints with David Witt, Sergi Bruguera, and Raymond Slaney). Under Hill, Sakkari claimed titles in Rabat (2019) and Guadalajara (2023) and reached semifinals at Roland Garros and the US Open (both 2021).
- Fitness trainer George Panagiotopoulos: A long-time collaborator who has built Sakkari into one of the most physically resilient players on the WTA Tour, capable of enduring grueling multi-hour matches.
- Hitting partner Giannis Stergiou: Back alongside Maria during her peak years, including her Grand Slam semifinals and near-claim of the world No. 1 ranking in March 2022. Stergiou, founder of the new Stergiou Tennis Academy, also supports her off-court fitness work.
This "team of successes" is now focused on addressing weaknesses exposed in 2025, with extended court time and tailored training in Dubai—free from the demanding tour schedule.
Goals for 2026
The reunion fuels high expectations for Sakkari's return to elite form: consistent deep runs in majors, major victories over top opponents, and a climb back up the rankings.
Her season kicks off at the United Cup in January, representing Greece alongside Stefanos Tsitsipas and the national team, before the Australian Open swing in Oceania.
With her fighter's mentality and a proven support system intact, Maria Sakkari's 2026 preparation signals a determined push to reclaim her place among tennis's very best.
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