Context:

Maria Sakkari and Yulia Putintseva engaged in a tense exchange following their match at the Bad Homberg Open, where Sakkari emerged victorious with scores of 7-5, 7-6 (6). During the post-match handshake, Putintseva slapped Sakkari’s hand without making eye contact, which sparked a verbal altercation. Sakkari was heard on the broadcast telling Putintseva, 'Nobody likes you,' after Putintseva responded to Sakkari's comments with a curtsy. In her post-match interview, Sakkari downplayed the incident, expressing indifference towards Putintseva's opinion of her, while maintaining respect for her as a player. Both players, who have notable career achievements, are focused on their future matches, with Sakkari advancing to the Round of 16 and contemplating her performance at Wimbledon.

Dive Deeper:

• Maria Sakkari and Yulia Putintseva clashed verbally after their match at the Bad Homberg Open, where Sakkari won with scores of 7-5, 7-6 (6), moving her to the Round of 16.

• The tension began during their handshake at the net when Putintseva slapped Sakkari’s hand and avoided eye contact, prompting Sakkari to confront her.

• Sakkari reportedly told Putintseva 'Nobody likes you' during the exchange, which was broadcasted, after Putintseva curtsied in response to Sakkari's initial comments.

• In a post-match interview, Sakkari expressed that while she respects Putintseva as a player, she is unconcerned about any potential personal animosity, emphasizing her friendships with other players.

• Sakkari, who has two career singles titles, is preparing for future competitions, including Wimbledon, where she has reached the third round multiple times.

• Yulia Putintseva, with three singles titles to her name, also has had a successful career, reaching the fourth round of Wimbledon in the previous year.

• The incident highlights the intensity and rivalries present in professional tennis, as competitors navigate both their personal and professional relationships on the court.