Maria Sakkari was quick to dismiss any suggestion that she will come into the US Open semi-final as favourite against 18-year-old Emma Raducanu. 

The Greek star dispatched Wimbledon finalist Karolina Pliskova in straight sets 6-4 6-4 to move just two matches away from a maiden Slam victory.

Next, Sakkari will face the 18-year-old Brit who has taken this year’s US Open by storm, most recently defeating Olympic gold medallist Belinda Bencic in straight sets.

The Greek, who also reached the semi-final stage at the French Open this year, is relishing the chance to take on Raducanu despite  knowing very little about her opponent.

“Obviously she’s having the tournament of her life. She deserves to be here. She has won all these matches.

“But I wouldn’t call myself the favourite. I think we all have equal chances of winning the semi-finals and then winning the title. I would give 25 per cent to each starting tomorrow, then 50 to the two finalists.

“We are all here for a reason. We’re all playing well. It was not like we had five walkovers. I’m excited to play a second semi-final this year.”

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