Mirra Andreeva, the 18-year-old Russian tennis prodigy ranked world No. 6, has named Roger Federer as her ultimate tennis idol, expressing a heartfelt desire to meet him, saying, “I’d also like to meet Roger; I hope that will be possible.” In a recent interview, Andreeva cited Federer’s elegance and record-breaking 20 Grand Slam titles, including his 237 consecutive weeks as world No. 1, as inspirations. She also admires Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, and Marat Safin, having met Nadal briefly at the 2024 French Open but missing a chance to converse. Her admiration for Federer, shared on platforms like X (@TennisUpToDate2), underscores her ambition to emulate his versatility and mental resilience.[]
Andreeva’s 2025 clay season began with a strong showing at the Madrid Open, where she reached the quarterfinals before falling 7-5, 6-1 to Coco Gauff, who later stunned Iga Swiatek 6-1, 6-1 in the semi-finals. Andreeva’s earlier victories over players like Yuliia Starodubtseva (6-1, 6-4) showcased her precise, flat shots and tactical acumen, honed under coach Conchita Martinez. Despite the loss, her 20-match win streak this year, including WTA 1000 titles in Dubai and Indian Wells—where she defeated Aryna Sabalenka and Swiatek—signals her Grand Slam potential.
As the Italian Open (May 7–18) and French Open (May 25–June 8) approach, Andreeva faces a competitive field. Jannik Sinner, returning in Rome post-doping ban, and Alexander Zverev, confident on clay, intensify the men’s draw, while Carlos Alcaraz may skip Rome to focus on Roland Garros. Swiatek, considering a post-Paris break, and Gauff, fresh off her Madrid triumph, challenge Andreeva’s women’s aspirations. Alex de Minaur, tipped by Todd Woodbridge for a semi-final, adds to the depth. Andreeva’s Federer-inspired mental fortitude and her 2024 French Open semi-final run at age 17 position her as a contender, provided she navigates the physical and mental demands of clay.
