In a captivating showdown at the Australian Open 2024, Russian tennis prodigy Mirra Andreeva faced a formidable challenge against 2021 French Open winner Barbora Krejcikova on Sunday, January 21, at John Cain Arena in Melbourne. Despite a promising start that saw Andreeva take the lead by capitalizing on Krejcikova’s 20 unforced errors in the opening set, the 16-year-old ultimately succumbed to the Czech player’s resilience.
The match unfolded with Andreeva securing the first set 4-6, showcasing her skill and determination. However, Krejcikova fought back in the second set, tallying 14 winners against Andreeva’s four, leveling the score at one set apiece. The deciding set witnessed Krejcikova’s strategic play, inducing 12 unforced errors from Andreeva and securing a 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 victory in a gripping encounter lasting two hours and two minutes.
Acknowledging her defeat with grace, Mirra Andreeva addressed her supporters in a post-match press conference in Melbourne. Expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support, she apologized to her fans, stating, “I hope that next year I will be able to be back and play again with this amazing crowd. Today there was a lot of people who were cheering for me. I’m really sorry to everyone that maybe I disappointed you a bit. I’m sure that the next match here I will try to be at my best level, to make you happy.”
Reflecting on her experience in Melbourne, Andreeva emphasized the special nature of competing in the Grand Slam tournament. “It’s always very special to be — doesn’t matter which Grand Slam. But Melbourne is also very special. It was just my third time here but second time playing on these courts. First times playing on this big courts and the stadiums,” she shared. “As I said, there is a lot of positive things to take from here. I just love Melbourne. I love being here. I love being in this atmosphere. I love playing on these courts.”
Despite the disappointment in the quarterfinals, Andreeva highlighted the positive aspects of her Australian Open journey. She recorded a significant victory by dispatching the sixth-seeded Ons Jabeur in straight sets, including a bagel in the second round at Rod Laver Arena. Prior to that, she showcased her prowess by defeating Bernarda Pera from the United States of America.
One of the most remarkable moments of Andreeva’s campaign was a stunning comeback in the third round against France’s Diane Parry. After losing the first set and trailing 5-1 in the third, Andreeva displayed resilience and determination, ultimately clinching the victory on Friday, January 19.
As Mirra Andreeva bids farewell to the Australian Open 2024, her journey leaves an indelible mark, filled with moments of triumph and resilience. Her apology to the fans resonates with a promise of returning stronger and aiming to bring joy to her supporters in future tournaments.
Maria Andreeva in 2024
Currently the world no. (career-high), Andreeva played her last match on the 1st of January 1970 when she capitulated to Barbara Bonic 6-0 7-6(0) in the qualifications of the Helsinki (draw).
Presently, during this year the Russian has achieved a compiled 0-0 record.
Maria Andreeva |
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