“I still feel like I’m 18”: Aryna Sabalenka reflects on facing teen sensation Mirra Andreeva in Indian Wells final
Aryna Sabalenka, known for her powerful game and fearless mentality, is embracing the challenge of facing teenage prodigy Mirra Andreeva in the Indian Wells final. The Belarusian star, who has firmly established herself among the world’s elite, shared her thoughts ahead of the much-anticipated clash, saying, “I still feel like I’m 18.”
At 26, Sabalenka remains as energetic and competitive as ever, but she recognizes the fresh wave of talent rising in women’s tennis. Mirra Andreeva, just 17 years old, has been on a breakthrough run, defeating top-ranked opponents to reach her biggest final yet. Despite the age gap, Sabalenka insists she still relates to the younger generation, recalling her own rapid rise through the ranks.
“It’s always exciting to play against the younger generation. I see a lot of myself in them—the energy, the hunger to win. But at the same time, I don’t feel older or slower. I still feel like I’m 18 in my heart,” Sabalenka said with a smile.
The final promises to be an electrifying showdown between Sabalenka’s raw power and Andreeva’s crafty shot-making. Will experience prevail, or will the teenage sensation pull off a historic upset?
