Sakkari Finding Groove with David Witt

By Chris Oddo | @TheFanChild | Monday March 11, 2024

Indian Wells – Former BNP Paribas Open Maria Sakkari has landed on her feet after parting ways with longtime coach Tom Hill.

Now working with David Witt, who recently parted ways with Jessica Pegula, the Greek has reeled off consecutive wins to set a round of 16 clash with France’s Diane Parry.

Sakkari says that working with Witt is relaxing, due to his easy going nature.

“I just feel very relaxed with David. He’s very laid back,” Sakkari said after recording a 6-3, 6-4 win to improve to 4-0 over Garcia. “That’s something that really helps me, being a very stressful person. I think I haven’t really stressed for anything the last few days I have been with him.”

Round of 16 bound 👏@mariasakkari closes it out 6-3 6-4 defeating Garcia. #TennisParadise | #IndianWells pic.twitter.com/wfpVVBIQDU

— BNP Paribas Open (@BNPPARIBASOPEN) March 12, 2024

Sakkari, who reached the BNP Paribas Open in 2022 and lost to Iga Swiatek in the final, says that the American coach is a barrel of laughs.

“He’s so funny. I think he’s one of the funniest guys I’ve ever met in my life. I’m laughing all the time,” she said. “I just really enjoy my time with him on and off the court. He’s a very nice guy. You know, which is the most important thing, but he’s also an amazing coach.

“He keeps it very simple, and that’s what I like, because I don’t think I’m a player that you have to complicate things – I like the way it’s going. You know, I hope he does too.”