Teenager Mirra Andreeva has made history by becoming the youngest player to reach the final of the Dubai Championships, overcoming Elena Rybakina with a score of 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 on Friday.
The 17-year-old Andreeva found herself trailing 3-1 in the deciding set but rallied to win the final five games, securing her place in her second tour final after previously triumphing in Iasi, Romania, last July.
“Whether I lose 6-0, 6-0 or win 7-5, 6-4 really doesn’t matter,” Andreeva shared. “I focus on my shots and aim to perform at my best.”
She continued, “The last match we played was extremely challenging. She executed her shots flawlessly and it ended badly for me. This time, I anticipated her powerful hitting, so I fought for every point and maintained my belief.”
In the other semi-final, Clara Tauson from Denmark, who previously defeated world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, secured her spot in the final with a 6-4, 6-7 (4), 6-3 victory over Karolina Muchova.
Ranked 38th, Tauson has already claimed a title this year in Auckland and currently leads the tour with 15 match wins.
Mirra Andreeva celebrating her victory over Elena Rybakina. Getty
Andreeva stands as the youngest player within the top 100, and her impressive performance this week has placed her on the verge of her first-ever appearance in the top 10.
By defeating Rybakina, along with Iga Swiatek and Marketa Vondrousova, Andreeva has become the youngest player to take down three Grand Slam champions in a single tournament since Maria Sharapova in 2004 at the WTA Finals.
“She has so much potential ahead of her and she is undoubtedly a threat,” remarked Rybakina, currently ranked No. 7.
Rybakina’s performance was hindered by an unusual 50 unforced errors.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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