Maria Sakkari: "Everything Was Ruined Because of My Relationship"

Greece's top-ranked tennis star Maria Sakkari has spoken candidly in an interview with The Second Serve podcast about the profound disappointment of losing her chance to serve as flag bearer for Greece at the 2024 Paris Olympics — a childhood dream she says was shattered due to political interference linked to her relationship with Konstantinos Mitsotakis, son of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

Sakkari was initially selected to carry the Greek flag alongside basketball icon Giannis Antetokounmpo during the opening ceremony. However, the decision was overturned at the last moment following a vote by the Hellenic Olympic Committee, with the honor ultimately going to race walker Antigoni Drisbioti.

A Dream Destroyed

"As a very proud Greek, carrying the flag for my country was my number one dream growing up," Sakkari shared. "When they called to say I'd be next to Giannis, I thought, 'Wow, this is the biggest thing that's ever happened in my career.'

"And then everything was ruined because of my relationship — for political reasons. That really hurt me, because I believe every athlete deserves to be flag bearer… I felt it wasn't because I'm not a good tennis player, but because some people didn't want to support me due to who I'm in a relationship with

The 30-year-old emphasized her unwavering support for her partner: "To be honest, I have the best partner in the world. I'm so happy he's in my life, and I wouldn't change him for anything — no matter what. He's been incredibly important to my life and career."

The ordeal deeply affected her Olympics experience: "I was miserable in Paris. I hated every minute," she admitted, revealing how the emotional toll exacerbated a serious shoulder injury that kept her off the court for months.

"Mentally, I was crushed… You're at the greatest celebration of sport, and you're just unhappy." Sakkari called for politics to stay out of athletics: "The political side should stay out of sport."

She noted receiving no formal explanation from the committee and described the unprecedented last-minute vote against her.

Navigating Life in the Political Spotlight

Despite the challenges, Sakkari spoke glowingly of her relationship: "We try not to get too involved [in politics]. He keeps me out of that world, which I appreciate… His family is amazing — they love me, and I love them. I see his father as his dad, not as the Prime Minister."

Her partner's studies at Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service provide a refreshing contrast to the tennis bubble, adding balance to her life.

On the Road to Recovery

Now fully healthy after her first major injury at age 29, Sakkari is working to climb back up the rankings after dropping out of the seeded positions.

"I've obviously been in better spots, but being healthy is the most important thing," she said. "My ranking fell, and I need to build it back — not just for the top 10, but to avoid tough early-round draws."

Remaining optimistic, she added: "I feel good these last few weeks… It will come with time. I'm positive, healthy, and happy — that's what matters most.

Drawing inspiration from peers like Paula Badosa who have battled similar setbacks, Sakkari is focused on the future — including a potential shot at flag-bearing duties at the 2028 Los Angeles Games, should her form warrant it.