Seventeen-year-old Mirra Andreeva cemented her status as the WTA Tour’s brightest rising star with a stunning comeback victory over world number one Aryna Sabalenka to claim the Indian Wells title. The Russian teenager displayed remarkable composure to overturn a one-set deficit, winning 2-6, 6-4, 6-3 and securing her second consecutive WTA 1000 title.
Having triumphed in Dubai just weeks ago, Andreeva extended her unbeaten run to 12 matches, becoming the youngest-ever champion at this elite level. Her performance against Sabalenka was a testament to her tactical intelligence and resilience. “I’d like to thank myself for fighting until the end, for always believing and for never quitting,” she joked during the trophy presentation, earning cheers from the crowd.
Sabalenka, known for her power game, dominated early, firing winners past Andreeva with ease. The teenager struggled to convert break points, squandering five in the opening set. But in the second, she adjusted her approach, using drop shots and defensive brilliance to disrupt Sabalenka’s rhythm. A crucial break in the third game shifted momentum, allowing her to level the match.
The deciding set showcased Andreeva’s maturity beyond her years. Three consecutive breaks left Sabalenka rattled, and when the Belarusian served to stay in the match, Andreeva sealed victory with a blistering forehand winner. “It was me against me. I made too many unforced errors and let her play better,” Sabalenka admitted.
Already tipped for future Grand Slam glory, Andreeva will rise to a career-high world No.6 on Monday. With legends like Martina Navratilova and Andy Roddick backing her to become a future world No.1, the teenage sensation’s rapid ascent shows no signs of slowing down.
