Maria Sakkari becomes emotional discussing her mother at Roland Garros

Following her second-round victory at Roland Garros, Greek tennis player Maria Sakkari became emotional during a press conference. Her reaction was triggered by a question from a Uruguayan former professional athlete who had competed against Sakkari's mother, Angeliki Kanellopoulou. Sakkari explained that she rarely discusses her mother or meets people who knew her during her playing career. She credited Kanellopoulou for her support and belief in her abilities, particularly during her junior years when she was not considered a top prospect. Sakkari noted that her mother retired at 24 to start a family, feeling she could not return to the top 100 rankings. The athlete clarified that her tears were not a sign of sadness, but rather a reflection of the rare and meaningful connection with someone familiar with her mother's history. She emphasized that this maternal guidance has been the most important factor in her career to date.