Mirra Andreeva Credits Sports Psychologist for Mental Strength in Dubai Victory
Mirra Andreeva has revealed that she recently began working with a sports psychologist, and the benefits are already showing. The rising Russian star applied advice from her sessions while battling a second-set deficit against Iga Swiatek in the Dubai quarterfinals.
On Thursday, Andreeva secured her first-ever WTA 1000 semifinal in impressive fashion, defeating the second-seeded Swiatek 6-3, 6-3. However, the 17-year-old had to fight back from a 1-3 deficit in the second set.
Instead of panicking, Andreeva stayed composed and reeled off five consecutive games to seal a straight-set victory. Later, she credited her mental training for helping her navigate those challenging moments.
“I have some new strategies, some new advice on how to manage my emotions, what to do when I don’t feel great, and how to maintain my level when I do feel great,” Andreeva told Tennis.com.
Andreeva: ‘I Was 1-3 Down, But I Felt Strong’
Trailing 1-3 in the second set, Andreeva had two break-point opportunities but was unable to convert. In the past, she admitted she might have let frustration get the best of her. But this time, she remained composed.
“Today, when I was losing 1-3, I honestly knew I was right there with her,” Andreeva explained.
“It was just a matter of a few points not going my way. I still felt strong, even at 1-3. I told myself, ‘Okay, it’s going to take some time, but I’ll fight my way back and try to win the set.’”
Interestingly, Swiatek herself has long credited her success to working with a sports psychologist, Daria Abramowicz, who has played a key role in her rise to the top. Andreeva’s recent focus on mental training suggests she is following a similar path, and with performances like this, it’s clearly paying off.
