Mirra Andreeva Makes History as Youngest WTA 1000 Champion in Dubai

By: Gyang Dakwo

Dubai, UAE – In a stunning display of talent and determination, 17-year-old Mirra Andreeva clinched the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships on Saturday night, becoming the youngest WTA 1000 champion in the tournament’s history. The rising star defeated Denmark’s Clara Tauson 7-6(1), 6-1 in a thrilling final that lasted 1 hour and 46 minutes.

The match marked the first WTA 1000 final for both players, but it was the 12th-seeded Andreeva who emerged victorious, showcasing her composure and skill against the 38th-ranked Tauson. At just 17 years and 299 days old, Andreeva has set a new benchmark for teenage success in the WTA 1000 series, which began in 2009.

“I’ve been dreaming of having a press conference with a [WTA 1000] trophy by my side, so finally, it happened,” Andreeva said with a smile during her victory press conference. “But I saw winners drinking a glass of champagne. It’s a pity that I’m still 17.”

Andreeva’s triumph in Dubai not only secured her second WTA title but also propelled her into the elite ranks of women’s tennis. On Monday, she will make her Top 10 debut in the PIF WTA Rankings, climbing from No. 14 to No. 9. This achievement makes her the first 17-year-old to break into the Top 10 since Nicole Vaidisova in 2007.

Reflecting on her rapid rise, Andreeva acknowledged the challenges ahead. “Now when you enter the Top 10, the higher your ranking is, the slower and longer it takes to climb further because the difference in points becomes very small,” she explained. “I think it’s going to be hard to enter the Top 5. That’s the exact goal I’m setting for myself—to be in the Top 5 by the end of the year. I’m very curious if I’ll be able to achieve it.”

Andreeva’s victory in Dubai cements her status as one of the most promising young talents in tennis. With her sights set on even greater achievements, the tennis world will be watching closely as she continues her remarkable journey.