Mirra Andreeva is gaining momentum at the Australian Open after securing her eighth win of the season, as she showcased her resilience and skill in defeating former world No. 3 Maria Sakkari on Wednesday evening. The 18-year-old began the match with determination, winning the first eight games before closing out the second set with a score of 6-0, 6-4 in just 67 minutes at Margaret Court Arena.
Having faced a challenging first-round match against Donna Vekic, where she came from a set down to claim victory, Andreeva appeared fully prepared for her match against Sakkari. Throughout the contest, she demonstrated superior serving, greater consistency, and composure during critical moments, which enabled her to advance to the third round of the tournament for the third consecutive year.
Andreeva will next face Romania’s Elena-Gabriela Ruse, who triumphed over Australian player Ajla Tomljanovic earlier in the day. Following her victory, Andreeva reflected on the tough draw she faced, admitting that it pushed her to perform at her best right from the start of the tournament.
“When I saw the draw I was like, ‘Wow, it’s not the easiest draw you can have,’” she stated. “I think it helps to be 100 percent since the first match that you’re playing.” She noted that although players often prefer to ease into tournaments, the competitive nature of the Australian Open required her to be fully engaged from the outset, a mindset that has paid off after winning her fourth title in Adelaide just before arriving in Melbourne.
Andreeva acknowledged the challenges presented by the conditions at the Australian Open, including the wind and absence of a retractable roof, but emphasized the importance of maintaining match rhythm and confidence. Drawing on her recent success, she remains optimistic about her journey in the tournament, noting that players who perform well in Adelaide often carry their momentum into the Grand Slam.
With a strong start and a positive outlook, Andreeva is poised to make a significant impact as she continues her campaign at Melbourne Park, showcasing her talent and potential on one of tennis’s biggest stages.