By Richard Pagliaro | @TennisNow | Sunday, February 23, 2025
Photo Credit: VCG/Getty
Mirra Andreeva has made waves in the tennis world, becoming the youngest champion in WTA 1000 history with her stellar performance at the Dubai tournament this past Saturday.
At just 17 years old, Andreeva is now stepping into the spotlight as she makes her Top 10 debut, becoming the youngest female player to achieve this milestone since the notable Nicole Vaidisova did so back in 2007.
READ MORE: Andreeva Dominates Swiatek in Dubai
In just two months of the 2025 season, Andreeva has already triumphed over three Grand Slam champions—Elena Rybakina, Iga Swiatek, and Marketa Vondrousova—while securing her second career title and boasting an impressive 13-3 record.
So, what lofty goals does Andreeva have in her sights for this season?
Breaking into the Top 5.
“Once you enter the top 10, climbing higher becomes a more gradual process because the gap in points is very tight,” Andreeva explained to reporters in Dubai. “Winning another tournament could potentially put me in the top 8.”
“But I realize that getting into the top 5 will be challenging. That’s my target for the year—reaching the top 5. I’m eager to see if I can accomplish it.”
In a thrilling final in Dubai, Andreeva triumphed over WTA ace leader Clara Tauson, winning 7-6(1), 6-1, to capture her most significant title to date.
After the match, the 22-year-old Tauson, who astonished the world by defeating No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka during her journey to the final, praised Andreeva, stating that she is no longer just a promising player; she has become a serious contender on any surface.
“She’s beyond promising; she has proven herself amongst the elite,” Tauson remarked about Andreeva. “Her tenacity and ability to fight for every point is remarkable. She can be incredibly challenging, playing those unexpected slices that disrupt your rhythm.”
“I felt I had some of my best energy in the first three games, but she consistently pressured me throughout the match. Congratulations to her; she’s clearly a top player now.”
