16-Year-Old Russian WTA Wonder-Kid Dares to Dream Big as She Sends Strong Message Ahead of Intriguing Elena Rybakina Clash

Mirra Andreeva is an up-and-coming player who surprised the world with her stunning game. The 16-year-old Russian star has made big jumps this year and found herself advancing deep in many tournaments. Now, in the China Open, Andreeva has again gone far and set up a bout with Elena Rybakina. Before their match, the up-and-coming star talked about her excitement at facing the Kazakh player in the tournament.

Andreeva is the latest teenage sensation in the sport this year. She first found popularity in the Madrid Open, where she earned a wildcard entry. Since then, she has fought hard and advanced well into the remaining Grand Slams. Now, she aims to close off the season with one victory.

Mirra Andreeva on Elena Rybakina bout

After beating the 2021 French Open finalist and winner in the opening rounds, Andreeva will now get to test her abilities against a Wimbledon champion. The Russian player qualified for the main draw of the China Open in blazing fashion and won her first two rounds quickly. But she now faces a monumental task: beating Elena Rybakina, Rank 5. She is excited to play the formidable champ and discussed her bout.

In an interview with the WTA, she said, “I wanted to play her actually. I like how she plays,” Andreeva said of Rybakina. “I know she’s a good server. I will try to break her a few times, if possible. I will give my everything so there are no regrets. If I win then I’m super happy. If she wins it means she played some good tennis. But I’m excited for it.”

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Andreeva has made big jumps this year as she won all her opening bouts in the previous grand slams. However, one big catch remains in the mix.

The hurdle facing the Russian teenager

Mirra Andreeva has faced three players from the Top 10 so far. In the fourth round of the Madrid Open, she lost to Aryna Sabalenka. She would then face a formidable Coco Gauff twice, in the Roland Garros and the US Open, losing both rounds. But now, she has a chance to take her improving career a step further as she will face Rybakina in Round Three of the China Open.

Andreeva has been a great addition to the WTA tour this year. From a wildcard draw to now ranking 60, she has made massive leaps in her career. She also created history at Wimbledon as she became the youngest player to reach Round Three in the grass slam. Her performance in the current China Open is a testament to her immense growth, and the bout against Rybakina will only show what else she has to offer.

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