Mirra Andreeva defeated Ons Jabeur 6-4 7-6 (2) to achieve the Brisbane Worldwide semifinal in model and likewise emulated one in every of Maria Sharapova’s spectacular feats.Â
When the 17-year-old takes on world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka on Saturday, she might be showing in her fourth WTA semifinal.Â
And when that occurs, she is going to be part of the Russian tennis icon on the record of gamers with a minimum of 4 semifinals earlier than turning 18.Â
Previously 20 years, 4 different gamers managed to emulate the feat – Coco Gauff, Nicole Vaidisova, Tatiana Golovin and Michaella Krajicek.
Apparently, Andreeva’s first semifinal on the principle stage got here at none apart from a Grand Slam – she was a French Open semifinalist final yr.
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In the remainder of 2024, she additionally gained the WTA 250 event in Iasi and completed as runner-up in Ningbo.Â
Now, she is 2 wins away from profitable her second WTA title. However so as to take action, she is going to first need to beat the present top-ranked participant within the sport.Â
Mirra Andreeva© Brisbane Worldwide/X – Truthful Use
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How Sabalenka feels about Andreeva?
After overcoming Marie Bouzkova, the Belarusian tennis star was filled with reward for the 17-year-old, talking extremely of her sport but additionally character.Â
“She’s an important participant. We performed an exhibition in Abu Dhabi. So I obtained to know her a little bit bit higher. She’s a pleasant individual and an important participant. We’ve had nice battles prior to now. I’m actually trying ahead to dealing with her tomorrow,” Sabalenka said of the Russian.Â
Eight months ago, Andreeva upset the world No. 1 in the French Open quarterfinal but the Belarusian easily won their back-to-back Madrid Open meetings in 2023 and 2024.
Heading into the Brisbane semifinal, the top seed is undoubtedly the favorite.Â
But one thing is for sure – Sabalenka absolutely won’t take Andreeva for granted.
