17-year-old Andreeva becomes the youngest-ever WTA 1000 champion, defeating world number one Aryna Sabalenka in a thrilling comeback.
Mirra Andreeva cemented her status as the brightest young talent in women’s tennis by defeating world number one Aryna Sabalenka 2-6, 6-4, 6-3 to win the Indian Wells title. The 17-year-old Russian, who also won the Dubai Open last month, extended her unbeaten streak to 12 matches with a stunning display of composure and tactical intelligence.
Sabalenka dominated the first set, but Andreeva adjusted her game, using her speed and defensive skills to frustrate the three-time Grand Slam champion. Three consecutive breaks in the final set proved decisive as the teenager forced errors from an increasingly agitated Sabalenka. Andreeva sealed victory with a powerful forehand winner, becoming the third youngest champion in tournament history, behind Martina Hingis and Serena Williams.
During the trophy presentation, a jubilant Andreeva quipped, “I tried to run like a rabbit because Aryna was sending bullets.” Her performance, marked by relentless retrieving and intelligent shot-making, drew praise from tennis legends such as Martina Navratilova, who noted her “maturity beyond her years.”
The victory propels Andreeva to a career-high world No. 6 ranking, further solidifying predictions that she could be a future world No. 1.
