Seventeen-year-old Mirra Andreeva has made history by becoming the youngest finalist in the Dubai Championships after defeating Elena Rybakina 6-4, 4-6, 6-3. Despite trailing 3-1 in the final set, Andreeva rallied to take the last five games, marking her second appearance in a tour final, the first being in Iasi, Romania, last July.
Reflecting on her performance, Andreeva stated, “Whether I lose 6-0, 6-0 or win 7-5, 6-4, it doesn’t matter to me. I focus on my shots and aim for my best.” She noted the previous tough match against Rybakina, expressing her determination to fight for every point.
In the other semi-final, Clara Tauson overcame Karolina Muchova 6-4, 6-7 (4), 6-3. Tauson has already claimed a title this year in Auckland and currently leads the tour with 15 match wins.
Andreeva, the youngest player in the top 100, is now poised for a breakthrough into the top 10, having defeated Grand Slam champions Iga Swiatek, Marketa Vondrousova, and Rybakina during the tournament. Rybakina acknowledged Andreeva’s potential, stating, “She has so much in front of her and is definitely dangerous” while struggling with a staggering 50 unforced errors in their match.