Andreeva states, “She is number one, but she is human,” and does not fear Swiatek.
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Confident that she could defeat Iga, Mirra talked fearlessly and eloquently about the formidable task that awaited her in the Cincinnati quarterfinals.
Mirra Andreeva’s incredible tennis skills never cease to wow the globe. The 17-year-old Russian player, who is now being coached by Conchita Martínez, displays an incredible confidence in her skills and is proving it with results that point to a steady and encouraging improvement. She has already advanced to the quarterfinals of the WTA Cincinnati 2024 after defeating Jasmine Paolini to exact revenge for her defeat at Roland Garros. What may surprise people the most, though, is her audacity, bravery, and confidence as she discusses her impending match against Iga Swiatek on Tennis Channel. She is certain that she can win this match.
Outstanding tennis skill and a comeback to beat Jasmine Paolini: it all began with a potty break
“Knowing she would play quickly, especially on such a rapid surface, she got off to a great start. I was prepared for it to be difficult for me, and it was. We broke each other’s serves right away. I had a lot of trouble finding my game and finding a rhythm in the opening set. I walked to the restroom and gave myself some time to reflect on what I needed to do in order to succeed.
Since that shot provides you an edge to start the point, I made the decision that, at the very least, I had to give my best throughout my service games. I began to play with greater aggression, going for it, believing that I had to hold my serve at the very least. By doing so, I was aware that I was always one game ahead; at 4-3, I finally broke her serve and felt even more assured.
At that point, I decided to play aggressively and started hitting several aces instead of waiting for her to make mistakes. It was really difficult for me because, near the conclusion of the match, she relaxed a little and produced some amazing crosscourt backhands. I made an effort to play the ball rather than wait for her to make mistakes.”
– The mental game she plays while playing: does she typically have a positive self-image throughout a match?
Actually, not at all (laughs). Yes, I am positive when things are going well, when I battle and lead in the score. But when I start losing, when I give up a lead and it’s 1-3 or 2-4, I become a little harsh with myself. I strive to challenge my thoughts. Maybe I could adjust it a little bit to be more optimistic since that would benefit me, but for the time being, the toughness path is working, so I’ll probably keep with it (laughs).
Does she seem to be totally concentrated on the court at all times? Does anything alter off the court? Does she use music as a self-motivation tool before to a match?
“Well, I believe I’m among the select few tennis players who doesn’t play any music in the hour before a match. I enjoy listening and keeping an eye on my surroundings. I feel like I should be present in the moment right now, paying attention to what’s going on, listening, and observing others without taking my eyes off the task. That’s it.
– Up next, an incredible test: Iga Swiatek in the quarterfinals
“I’m prepared. She is undoubtedly the best in the world, but like me, she is a person, therefore I don’t see anything particularly remarkable about her. She’s playing really well and exudes confidence every time she takes the court, but I also think I play with a lot of self-assurance. If the odds don’t go in my favor this time, they certainly will the next time I take the court and give it my all. But tomorrow, I’ll do all in my power to make things my way. In addition, I believe we’ll play on Center Court, and because I had a great experience playing there previously, I’m game.”
