INDIAN WELLS, Calif. – Maria Sakkari advanced to the third round of the BNP Paribas Open on Saturday, defeating 18-year-old Austrian wildcard Lilli Tagger 7-5, 6-0. The match, played at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, marked the first career meeting between the two players.
Sakkari, the No. 32 seed and a two-time runner-up at Indian Wells, demonstrated her experience and composure against the rising talent. While Tagger showed flashes of potential, particularly in the first set, Sakkari ultimately proved too strong, securing a decisive victory in just over 90 minutes.
First Set Battle, Second Set Dominance
Tagger, making her debut in a WTA 1000 tournament, displayed a competitive spirit early on, challenging Sakkari in several games. The Austrian had opportunities to break Sakkari’s serve, earning a total of six break points throughout the match, but was unable to convert them. Sakkari, ranked No. 34, consistently raised her level in crucial moments, showcasing her renowned mental fortitude.
The first set remained tightly contested until Sakkari broke Tagger’s serve to take a 7-5 lead. The Greek player then carried that momentum into the second set, quickly establishing control. She secured an early break to go up 2-0 and continued to apply pressure, preventing Tagger from mounting a comeback. Sakkari won eight consecutive games, closing out the match with authority.
“It was a good match for me,” Sakkari said in a post-match interview. “Lilli is a very talented player, and she showed a lot of fight. I’m happy I was able to stay focused and close out the match.”
Tagger’s Promising Debut
Despite the loss, Tagger’s performance in Indian Wells represents a significant step forward in her young career. The 18-year-old earned a wildcard into the main draw and seized the opportunity to test herself against a seasoned professional. Her ability to compete with Sakkari, particularly in the first set, suggests a bright future for the Austrian player.
Tagger’s participation in the BNP Paribas Open is part of a broader trend of young players making their mark on the WTA Tour. The influx of talent is creating a more competitive landscape and adding excitement to the sport.
Sakkari’s Road Ahead
Sakkari’s victory over Tagger sets up a third-round encounter against a yet-to-be-determined opponent. The Greek player will be looking to build on this win and make another deep run at Indian Wells, where she reached the final in both 2022 and 2024.
Currently ranked No. 34, Sakkari is aiming to improve her ranking and solidify her position among the top players in the world. Her recent form has been encouraging, highlighted by a semifinal appearance in Doha in February, where she lost to Muchova 3-6, 6-4, 6-1. Sakkari has a 7-4 win-loss record for 2026, with a 7-4 record on hard courts.
Throughout her career, Sakkari has amassed an impressive 487-329 overall record, including a 245-175 record on hard courts. Her experience and consistency make her a dangerous opponent for anyone on the tour.
The BNP Paribas Open continues through March 22nd, with top players from around the world competing for the prestigious title. Fans can follow the action live on the WTA website and through various broadcast partners.
Next Up: Maria Sakkari will await the winner of [opponent to be determined] in the third round of the BNP Paribas Open. Match details, including the date and time, will be announced shortly on the official tournament website.
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