Russian Teenager Mirra Andreeva Makes History as Youngest WTA 1000 Champion in Dubai

Emerging tennis sensation Mirra Andreeva has clinched the most significant title of her rising career, overcoming Clara Tauson to secure victory at the WTA 1000 tournament in Dubai.

The 17-year-old not only made history as the youngest finalist in the history of WTA 1000 events but has now also become the youngest champion since the tournament format was established in 2009.

The No. 12 seed triumphed over Tauson in one hour and 46 minutes, with a final score of 7-6 (1), 6-1.

In her post-match interview, she expressed her desire for a celebratory glass of champagne.

“I’ve always dreamt of attending a press conference with a [WTA 1000] trophy beside me, and today that dream came true,” Andreeva remarked.

“But I observed winners enjoying a glass of champagne. It’s unfortunate that I’m still 17,” she added.

This victory marked a remarkable week for the Russian prodigy, who showcased her talent by defeating Iga Swiatek and Elena Rybakina en route to the title.

With this win, Andreeva is set to break into the top 10 of the WTA rankings for the first time, becoming the first 17-year-old to do so since Nicole Vaidisova in 2007. She is also one of only five players over the last two decades to secure multiple WTA titles prior to turning 18.

After dropping the first two games of the opening set, Andreeva quickly found her rhythm and fought back to level the score.

In the tiebreak, she surged ahead as Tauson experienced a string of mistakes, winning the first set in exactly an hour.

The second set saw Andreeva dominate; she broke Tauson in the latter’s second service game and managed to turn around a 0-40 predicament in the third to lead 4-1. With an overhead smash, she broke again and confidently served out the match.

Andreeva shared that she drew inspiration from an NBA legend leading up to the match.

“I’ve been listening to numerous interviews of LeBron James,” she explained.

“He said it’s simple to feel confident and play well when things go your way, but what truly defines a champion is giving your best when you’re not feeling great … that’s exactly what I aimed to do today.”