Teenager Andreeva beats Rybakina to become youngest WTA 1000 finalist in Dubai
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva became the youngest player to reach the final of a WTA 1000 event after beating sixth-seeded Elena Rybakina 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 Friday at the Dubai Championships.
The 17-year-old Andreeva trailed 3-1 in the third set before winning the last five games to reach her second tour-level final. She won the Iasi Open in Romania last July.
“If I lose 6-0, 5-0 or I win 7-5, 6-4, it doesn’t matter,” Andreeva said. “I just go for my shots and try to bring out my best level.”
Her opponent in the final will be either Clara Tauson, the Dane who knocked out top-seeded Aryna Sabalenka, or Karolina Muchova.
After wins against Rybakina, Iga Swiatek and Marketa Vondrousova in Dubai, Andreeva also became the youngest player to beat three Grand Slam champions in a single tournament since Maria Sharapova in 2004 at the WTA Finals.
“She has so much in front of her and she’s for sure dangerous,” Rybakina said of Andreeva.
___
AP tennis: https://apnews.com/hub/tennis
News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Join the Conversation!
Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community? Create a free account to comment on stories, ask questions, and join meaningful discussions on our new site.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.