Mirra Andreeva has brought her ‘A’ game to Paris this season. By qualifying for her first semifinal match in a Grand Slam, Andreeva produced her career-best victory in her first-ever Grand Slam quarter-final match against world number 2. However, behind her success on-court lies the hard work that she goes through with her coach, Conchita Martinez. When asked about the support that she gains from the former world no. 2, the 17-year-old player hinted at the “amazing advantage” that she enjoys when it comes to her coaching under Martinez.

Mirra Andreeva is now the youngest player to win against a world No. 2 player at a grand slam since 1999. On top of that, the Russian player, currently ranked 38th, will also rise steadily in the WTA rankings as well. Naturally, the semifinalist at Roland Garros is over the moon after the match. Her high spirits were observed in the on-court interview as well. But even amid the glory of success, she did not forget to share a moment of gratitude with her coach, Martinez.

When the reporter asked her, “You started working with Conchita Martinez. Does that mean you don’t need her?”Andreeva responded immediately, “No I still need her. She is giving me great support. And okay, sometimes I can remember a little information. But yeah, having her by my side it’s an amazing advantage for me. And I’m really happy that she still works with me.”

After her touching words, she glanced at her coach and shared a brief moment of celebration with the former Wimbledon champion. Much like Andreeva, a proud Conchita Martinez also smiled back and clapped for her from the stands. The moment exuded the depth of their friendship, which extends beyond their professional commitments. 

The two started working together in April, and, according to the former tennis pro, “We clicked immediately. It was just like we knew each other for years. It’s very nice to work with her. She is open ears. She is willing to work, willing to do what it takes.” On the other hand, the 2023 WTA Newcomer of the Year is also full of praise for Martinez. “I really like the atmosphere that we have together. I like that we can separate on-court and off the court, I really enjoy working with her,” she previously confessed.

Not only for her on-court demeanor, but Conchita Martinez also shed light on how the rising tennis star’s off-court behavior pleases her.

Mirra Andreeva’s coach highlights the “fun” and “polite” nature of Andreeva

After her recent victory over Aryna Sabalenka, Mirra Andreeva admitted on-court, “Me and my coach had a plan today. But again, I didn’t remember anything during the match.” However, when the camera spanned to her coach, the tennis fans witnessed Martinez smiling at the heartfelt confession of the 17-year-old. After all, the Spaniard once admitted how she is “firm” on-court, but off-court, the scenario is different.

“Off the court she’s very fun, polite, very well educated. She’ll see everyone and say good morning, thank you and all of that. I hope she never loses that and stays humble. That’s a quality. As long as I’m with her, I will hope to keep.”

Armed with the support and guidance of the 52-year-old player, Mirra Andreeva is currently onto her next rival (Jasmine Paolini) at the Roland Garros. Whether she achieves the title, this year still remains to be seen. But either way, the tennis world wants to see more of her amazing partnership with Conchita Martinez.