Whoever believes sports are just about high-octane showdowns and hot controversies probably missed out on WTA’s latest scene in Ningbo. Deeming with strength and adamant about reversing her recent misfortunes on the tour, Daria Kasatkina decorated her resume in the Asian hardcourt swing with a title triumph and amazingly exhibited heartfelt compassion towards her rival and countrywoman Mirra Andreeva.

The Russian star entered the WTA 500 event on the back of a losing streak in Asia. However, Kasatkina stood on business at the Ningbo Open and quashed formidable challenges on her way to the summit clash – where she met compatriot Andreeva. After a captivating show of skill and later, marking her comeback from 0-3 down in the decider, the Russian lifted her eighth WTA crown. With the crowd already thrilled, Kasatkina aired an emotional gesture towards her longtime friend.

The former World No. 8 came to her compatriot’s rescue at the customary award ceremony, where Andreeva notably broke down in tears while trying to address the Chinese fans during her runner-up speech. The 27-year-old rushed to the stage to comfort the Russian teen talent who was enduring a heartbreaking defeat in Ningbo. Those emotions were natural; the young athlete lost the golden opportunity to lift her second WTA title this season after her last triumph in Iasi, Romania.

With this victory, Kasatkina will break into the world’s top 10 on Monday – having added a second crown to her resume this year, with her last recorded feat at the Eastbourne International in June. Moreover, her friendship with young Andreeva is just as exciting as witnessing the former’s newfound form. Notably, the duo engaged in heartwarming moments during their adventures at the China Open.

When Daria Kasatkina shared adorable moments with friend Mirra Andreeva in China

Russian stars Daria Kasatkina and Mirra Andreeva haven’t taken their foot off the gas. Both players thrive off noteworthy triumphs, continuing their formidable run on the tour – all the while maintaining an adorable friendship with each other. Subsequently, the former World No. 8 hilariously interviewed Andreeva in China while greeting Chinese fans during the Asian hardcourt swing in Beijing.

After hilariously snatching and running away stuff toys gifted to Kasatkina from fans, Andreeva candidly expressed her thoughts on the local fans and her attendance at the WTA event. Later, Kasatkina went back and forth asking intriguing questions to the young talent. To much amazement, Andreeva highlighted that she loved the atmosphere in Beijing and amusingly revealed that the Chinese fans gave her a lot of gifts.

“Last week in Beijing I received a huge panda. Like, it weighs I think around two kilos probably. I already had trouble traveling with it, but I’m going to take it home, of course … I received a lot of gifts. I don’t mind! I like that. So, yeah, just have to buy another suitcase for all of those,” Andreeva said.

As for Kasatkina, the Russian player will next mark her attendance at the Japan Open. Having skipped the opening two rounds being the No. 3 seed, she will next take to the court in the event’s Round of 16 on October 23, Wednesday.