PARIS — Teenage tennis sensation Mirra Andreeva has stormed into the quarter-finals of the French Open after a dramatic victory over her rival, but her post-match comments revealed raw emotions as she admitted, "I hate her" following the intense clash.
Andreeva's Breakthrough Run Continues
The 17-year-old Russian prodigy, competing under a neutral flag, defeated her opponent in straight sets (6-3, 6-4) to reach her first Grand Slam quarter-final. Andreeva's remarkable performance at Roland Garros has made her the youngest player to reach this stage since 2005.
Despite her composed play on court, Andreeva's fiery personality emerged during her post-match press conference when asked about her relationship with the defeated opponent. "I don't like her, to be honest. I hate her," she bluntly stated, though refusing to elaborate on the reasons behind the animosity.
A Rivalry Born on Junior Circuit
Sources close to the players suggest the tension stems from their junior days, where they faced each other multiple times in high-stakes matches. Key moments in their rivalry include:
- Their controversial 2022 junior final where Andreeva accused her opponent of gamesmanship
- A heated exchange during last year's junior Wimbledon tournament
- Social media spats that were later deleted
Andreeva's coach, Jean-René Lisnard, attempted to downplay the comments: "Mirra plays with passion - sometimes too much. These are emotions after a big win. She respects all opponents."
Historic Achievement for Teen Phenom
Andreeva's quarter-final berth continues her rapid rise in professional tennis. Just two years ago, she was ranked outside the top 500. Now, she's guaranteed to break into the top 40 after Roland Garros.
Her performance statistics at this year's French Open are staggering:
- Won 82% of first serve points
- Converted 45% of break point opportunities
- Average match time of just 1 hour 28 minutes
Coaching Team Keeps Her Grounded
Despite her fiery temperament, Andreeva's team has worked hard to channel her emotions productively. Fitness coach Juan Coto revealed: "We've implemented breathing techniques and mental exercises to help her manage big moments. She's come a long way in six months."
Quarter-Final Challenge Ahead
Andreeva now faces world No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka in what promises to be a thrilling quarter-final. The Belarusian powerhouse leads their head-to-head 1-0, but that match was on hard courts.
Sabalenka responded diplomatically when asked about Andreeva's comments: "Young players have big emotions. I remember being 17. The important thing is the tennis - and she's playing amazing tennis right now."
Future Star With Edge
While Andreeva's frankness may raise eyebrows, tennis analysts note it's part of what makes her compelling. Former champion Mats Wilander observed: "The greats often had this edge - think Serena, think McEnroe. It's about channeling it correctly. Mirra has that X-factor."
As the tennis world watches her quarter-final with bated breath, one thing is certain - whether loved or controversial, Mirra Andreeva is bringing new excitement to women's tennis.
The WTA has declined to comment on Andreeva's "I hate her" remark, though sources indicate they consider it part of the emotional heat of competition rather than requiring disciplinary action.
Andreeva herself seemed to soften her stance later, telling reporters: "Maybe hate is strong word. Let's say we have... complicated history. But today I played better, and that's what matters."