Sensational Mirra Andreeva stuns Aryna Sabalenka: Teenager claims back-to-back WTA 1000 titles

Mirra Andreeva was simply sensational in defeating Aryna Sabalenka in the Indian Wells final to secure her second consecutive WTA 1000 title. The 17-year-old player extended her winning streak to 12 consecutive victories and guaranteed her best-ever ranking, as she will appear as world No. 6 on Monday.

The teenager delivered another remarkable performance, having already defeated opponents such as Elena Rybakina and Iga Swiatek, but this time the challenge was against the world No. 1. In a display of composure and a strong mindset, the Russian turned around a tough start to win 2-6, 6-4, 6-3.

Read also

Tournament Centre Indian Wells Open 2025: Schedule, results, Prize Money and TV Guide

First Set

Right from the first game, Sabalenka found herself down 0-30, showing that Andreeva had plenty to offer in this final. The Belarusian managed to hold her opening service game with difficulty, while the Russian responded with a much smoother hold.

Whenever Sabalenka took control of the point, Andreeva had no problem taking a few steps back and playing defensively, focusing more on keeping the ball in play rather than going for winners. By the third game, the Russian had already squandered four break points in her favour.

Read also

Here is how much you can earn in Prize Money at Miami Open 2025

Just when it seemed Andreeva was closer to securing the break, Sabalenka struck first, converting her first opportunity to go up 3-1. The teenager frequently attempted down-the-line shots, constantly changing directions during rallies. Sabalenka responded well, showing quickness to chase down balls and keep the rallies alive, which eventually led the Russian to commit several errors.

Sabalenka extended her lead to 5-2, prompting Andreeva to slam her racket on the ground for the first time. Frustration and emotional control have often been challenging for Andreeva, and after that moment, she once again dropped her serve, allowing the world No. 1 to take the first set 6-2.

Read also

Draw WTA Miami Open 2025 headlined by Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, Coco Gauff and defending champion Danielle Collins

Second Set

Once again, Andreeva wasted several break opportunities at the start of the set. Considering their two previous encounters, Andreeva had a 0-18 record in converting break points against Sabalenka. However, she finally broke that streak on her 11th break point.

After breaking that unfortunate record, she seemed to regain her confidence, displaying a particularly calm attitude for a player who usually shows her emotions more openly. Not only did Andreeva take control of the match, but the variety in her game drew ovations from the crowd, with perfectly executed lobs, drop shots, and down-the-line winners. The world No. 9 held onto her lead after going up 3-1.

She saved a couple of break points midway through the set and looked increasingly assured in her game. The Russian showed no hesitation in closing out the set with a love service game, including two aces, winning 6-4. It was turning into an increasingly exciting battle, with Andreeva winning 73% of her service points compared to just 53% for Sabalenka.

Third Set

In many of Sabalenka’s service games, she found herself starting from behind, but at the beginning of the third set, she couldn’t recover, allowing Andreeva to secure the first break and take a 1-0 lead. The 17-year-old displayed noticeably different body language compared to other matches — she looked confident and composed as she approached the rest of the match.

Read also

Coincidence or Destiny? Mirra Andreeva’s identical path to Madison Keys in pursuit of glory

In a hard-fought game, Sabalenka showed why she is world No. 1 and broke back without losing her composure. However, she still looked somewhat frustrated, especially when Andreeva broke back for the second consecutive time and then, with her serve, took a 3-1 lead.

The second part of the set felt tense on both sides, as both players made more unforced errors than in the earlier sets. Andreeva clung to her serve to stay ahead, while Sabalenka watched her chances of a comeback slip away.

An unforced error gave Andreeva her first match points, and she sealed a remarkable win with a 2-6, 6-4, 6-3 scoreline. Andreeva moves up to world No. 6 and extends her winning streak to 12 consecutive victories as champion of the last two WTA 1000 events.

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Unlock your ultimate tennis experience—subscribe today for exclusive access to top stories.

Subscribe