For the fourth straight year, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Maria Sakkari — Greece's dynamic tennis stars and both former world No. 3s — will kick off their seasons defending national colors at the United Cup.
The powerhouse pair headlines a talented Greek squad that includes Stefanos Sakellaridis, Petros Tsitsipas, Despina Papamichail, and Sapfo Sakellaridi.
Greece has been a fixture in the event since its 2023 debut. The passionate support from Australia's large Greek community has fueled strong runs, including a semifinal appearance in 2023 and quarterfinals in 2024.
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"It's always special to return to a team event—there's so much excitement," Tsitsipas reflected ahead of past editions. "The United Cup is one of tennis's premier competitions. Representing Greece doesn't happen often in our sport.
"The Greek fans show up in force no matter where we play—Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane, or Sydney. Their energy is unwavering, regardless of who's on court. It gives us a real psychological edge."
Tsitsipas commands the court with his explosive weapons and elegant all-court game as a two-time Grand Slam finalist.
The 27-year-old faced challenges in 2025, dropping from world No. 8 in April to outside the top 30 by year's end, hampered by injuries. He last competed at the Davis Cup in September.
Highlights included a standout week in Dubai, where he claimed his 12th career title at the ATP 500 event—a timely reminder of his elite potential.
Sakkari's 2025 followed a similar path: ranking dips but flashes of top form, setting the stage for a strong 2026 comeback.
Seeded 31st at the 2025 Australian Open, she plummeted to No. 92 in May before climbing back to No. 52, boosted by a Washington DC quarterfinal and US Open third round.
As a two-time Grand Slam semifinalist, Sakkari shines in United Cup mixed doubles, holding a 4-1 record with Tsitsipas.
"It's a huge advantage partnering with Stefanos," Sakkari said with a grin. "From our very first match, our on-court chemistry was evident."
That synergy and patriotic passion drive Tsitsipas and Sakkari as Greece competes in Group E in Perth against Great Britain and Japan.
Expect thrilling clashes: Sakkari versus Emma Raducanu and Naomi Osaka, plus Tsitsipas taking on Britain's Jack Draper, who peaked at world No. 4 in 2025.
A deep run could provide the perfect launchpad, restoring both stars to the top 10 with renewed momentum and confidence.
"That is our goal, of course," Sakkari affirmed. "Winning this event would be a dream come true."
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