Maria Sakkari vs Yuliia Starodubtseva Preview & Prediction | 2026 US Open | Second Round

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Maria Sakkari faces Yuliia Starodubtseva in the second-round of the US Open. 

Start date/time: 3 September 2026 at 4:00 pm

Venue: USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, New York, USA

Surface: Outdoor hard

How to watch on TV: UK – Sky Sports Tennis / USA – ESPN

How to watch online: UK – Sky Go / USA – ESPN+

Tickets: Visit this link for the latest Maria Sakkari vs Yuliia Starodubtseva ticket information

Maria Sakkari vs Yuliia Starodubtseva prediction

Maria Sakkari had to produce an impressive turnaround in the opening round, recovering from a set and a break down to beat Robin Montgomery. The Greek faced 14 break points and looked to be heading out of the tournament as she went 4-0 down in the second set, but imposed herself as the match developed, winning six return games and dominating the decider to win 2-6 7-5 6-2. Sakkari’s recent form has been largely encouraging, as she reached the Athens final in July, while she also took the opening set from Iga Swiatek in the third-round of the Cincinnati Open, before losing 4-6 6-1 6-1.

Yuliia Starodubtseva enjoyed a considerably smoother opener as she easily beat Ella Seidel 6-2 6-2. The Ukrainian saved all five break points she faced and committed only one double fault. She had also shown improved form before New York, reaching the Monterrey Open quarter-finals with straight set wins over Lilli Tagger and Janice Tjen before losing to Elise Mertens.

Starodubtseva should be a tough opponent for Sakkari, but the Greek’s physicality and ability to raise her level across three sets give her the edge.

Maria Sakkari vs Yuliia Starodubtseva tip: Maria Sakkari to win