Mirra Andreeva Stuns Iga Swiatek to Reach Dubai Championships Semifinals

Posted : 21 February 2025

Teenager Mirra Andreeva shocked second seed Iga Swiatek to reach the Dubai Championships semifinals, crediting her victory to better managing her emotions. The 17-year-old Russian rallied from a break down in the second set to claim a 6-3, 6-3 win in just over 90 minutes, continuing a streak that has seen top seeds fall throughout the tournament. Andreeva, ranked 14th, is the youngest player to secure five Top 10 wins since Nicole Vaidisova in 2007, further solidifying her status as a rising star on the WTA Tour.

Their previous encounter in Cincinnati saw Swiatek stage a comeback to edge Andreeva in three sets, but this time, the Russian remained composed and aggressive. Reflecting on her approach, Andreeva emphasized her efforts to stay confident and take risks, which she believed made the difference. She also credited working with a psychologist to help manage her emotions and maintain her level of play during crucial moments.

Swiatek struggled to convert her opportunities, failing to capitalize on seven break points before eventually breaking Andreeva for a 3-1 lead in the second set, only to see her opponent reel off five straight games to seal the win.

Swiatek, a five-time Grand Slam champion, admitted she lacked consistency and struggled with unforced errors, making 33 in total. She acknowledged Andreeva's potential, recalling their practice sessions and previous match, and conceded that she could not expect to win without playing at her best. Swiatek's early exit adds to a string of upsets, as Coco Gauff, Aryna Sabalenka, Jessica Pegula, and defending champion Jasmine Paolini were all eliminated before the latter stages of the tournament.

Andreeva’s next challenge will be sixth seed Elena Rybakina, who secured her spot in the semifinals with a straight-sets victory over Sofia Kenin. Rybakina, the highest-ranked player remaining in the draw, is making her first semifinal appearance in Dubai since 2020. Meanwhile, Denmark’s Clara Tauson continued her strong run by defeating Linda Noskova, setting up a semifinal clash with either Karolina Muchova or Sorana Cirstea. Tauson, who eliminated Sabalenka in the previous round, expressed surprise at maintaining her level, admitting she had expected a dip in form.

Mirra Andreeva Stuns Iga Swiatek to Reach Dubai Championships Semifinals

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