Maria Sakkari faces a particularly tough challenge in Wuhan, as she will take on Mia Pochankova for a spot in the quarterfinals of the Wuhan Open; one of the rising stars of women’s tennis.
The 17-year-old Slovak, who is participating in the tournament on a wild card, secured her spot in the third round by defeating Xi Yu Wang 2-1 in sets (7-6, 6-7, 6-1). Earlier, she had also overcome Bodar, reaching this stage of a WTA 1000 tournament for the first time.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
Kostiuk to face sakkari in the round of 32 in yuhang
Pohankova is ranked No. 202 in the world, but she has already shown that she has the talent to hold her own against more experienced opponents. In fact, in 2025 she won the junior title at Wimbledon, confirming her potential for the future.
On the other hand, Sakkari is coming into the match in high spirits following her remarkable comeback victory over Marta Kostyuk, the world No. 10, whom she defeated 4-6, 6-2, 6-2. This was the Greek champion’s third victory over a top-10 player in 2026.
The 31-year-old Sakkari, who is ranked No. 35 in the world rankings, had previously defeated Donna Vekić in straight sets, demonstrating that she is in good form on the Chinese courts.
*Photo source: AP
