Preview WTA Indian Wells Final: Mirra Andreeva’s stunning run meets Aryna Sabalenka’s championship experience

The finalists for the WTA 1000 Indian Wells have been decided, with the inspired teenager Mirra Andreeva set to challenge World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka following impressive semifinal performances.

The teenager was the first to secure a spot in the final by defeating defending champion Iga Swiatek in a thrilling three-set battle 7-6, 1-6, 6-3. On the other side, Sabalenka simply crushed Madison Keys in just 45 minutes, winning 6-0, 6-1.

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Andreeva’s stellar streak continues

The Russian teenager continues her stellar form after overcoming Iga Swiatek in a three-set battle (7-6, 1-6, 6-3), extending her winning streak to 11 consecutive victories, following her first WTA 1000 title at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.

Tauson, Rybakina, and Swiatek were among the opponents she defeated a couple of weeks ago in Dubai, and she has now eliminated them again in Indian Wells. The Russian is aiming for her second consecutive WTA 1000 title, which would see her rise a few positions in the rankings, possibly to World No. 6.

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Simply incredible! Mirra Andreeva stuns Iga Swiatek to reach Indian Wells final

The teenager has more than enough reason to claim the title. She has shown comfort on the Indian Wells surface. Among her rivals, she faced two players who can somewhat be compared to Sabalenka in terms of power and serving strength: Tauson and Rybakina, and Andreeva conceded only three games to each of them.

At 17, Andreeva isn't afraid of a power clash, despite possessing a full array of shots, from slices to drop shots, and an exceptional ability to switch from defense to attack across the court.

However, this time, her challenge is against none other than World No. 1, with whom she has a 1-4 head-to-head record, her sole victory coming on the clay courts of the 2024 French Open. This year, Sabalenka has won both of their hardcourt encounters (Brisbane International and Australian Open).

Sabalenka set for 11th WTA 1000 Final

Seeing Sabalenka in the Indian Wells final is hardly a surprise to many, but her incredible performance against Madison Keys was unexpected. The World No. 1 overwhelmed her rival, winning 6-0, 6-1, giving her a huge confidence boost ahead of the final.

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Sensational Aryna Sabalenka delivers a bakery special to Madison Keys in Indian Wells semifinal

The 3-time Grand Slam champion had a relatively smooth path in the early rounds, not facing any top-45 rivals. However, she impressively defeated Samsonova (24th seed) in the quarterfinals and delivered an exceptional performance against Keys. Sabalenka ended Keys' 15-match win streak and avenged her loss in the final of the Australian Open earlier this year.

Sabalenka will benefit from her vast experience in these types of matches. This will be her 11th WTA 1000 final (with a 7-3 record), and most of her encounters with Andreeva have heavily favored her—except for the loss at the 2024 French Open. The 26-year-old will need to show why she is World No. 1, and maintaining her composure in this crucial match will be key.

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