Teenager Mirra Andreeva, aged 17, has shared her experience with online threats and abuse, echoing the recent challenges faced by Emma Raducanu. Andreeva made headlines by defeating world No.2 Iga Swiatek in the Dubai Championships, marking a significant upset and becoming the youngest semi-finalist in the tournament’s history. She won the match convincingly with a score of 6-3, 6-3, showcasing her aggressive play style.
In light of the pressures surrounding elite tennis, Andreeva revealed unsettling details of a threatening message she received: “Look around, because I’m going to find you and I’m going to cut your arms.” She highlighted how players often face a wave of negative messages after losses, underscoring the mental strains of the sport.
Swiatek, reflecting on her recent performance, acknowledged that her semi-final run at the Australian Open affected her preparation for subsequent tournaments in the Middle East. She expressed her disappointment with her results, suggesting a need for better planning and practice to enhance her performance in future outings.
Next, Andreeva will face sixth-seeded Elena Rybakina, continuing her impressive rise in the tennis world amidst the ongoing pressures athletes face from both competition and online scrutiny.