Sports
Andreeva and Tauson Clash in Historic Dubai Final
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Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Teen tennis sensation Mirra Andreeva, 17, will face Denmark’s Clara Tauson, 22, in the final of the 2025 Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships on Saturday, February 22. This matchup marks both players’ first appearance in a WTA 1000 final, with a career-best title and vital ranking points on the line.
The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships is one of the premier events in women’s tennis, and Saturday’s finals are set against a backdrop of excitement. The doubles final kicks off the day at 4:30 p.m. local time (GMT +4), followed by the singles final at 7 p.m. (10 a.m. ET).
Standing to gain significantly from this match, both Andreeva and Tauson will earn at least 650 ranking points and $351,801 in prize money for reaching the final. The champion will secure 1,000 WTA ranking points and $597,000, potentially catapulting Andreeva into the Top 10, a feat last achieved by a 17-year-old in 2017. Meanwhile, Tauson can enter the Top 20 ranking for the first time with a victory.
This encounter will also represent a historical moment as it features the youngest combined age in a WTA 1000 final since the format began in 2009. The match showcases two players who have impressed during the tournament, both taking down formidable opponents en route to the final.
Andreeva’s path to the final has been nothing short of spectacular. She has defeated three Grand Slam champions, including a quarterfinal upset over World No. 2 Iga Swiatek with a score of 6-3, 6-3. This victory has positioned her as the youngest player to defeat three major champions at a tournament since Maria Sharapova in 2004.
“Honestly, it’s crazy because at first, I was not very positive before coming to Dubai. I thought, ‘OK, I am just going to play,'” Andreeva said. “But as always, when you focus on playing your best tennis, it becomes one of your best tournaments.”
In contrast, Tauson has proven her abilities in Dubai with notable victories, including a straight-sets win against World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka. Her performance has affirmed her position as a top competitor this season, earning her equal recognition as one of the tour’s emerging talents.
Tauson reflected on her preparations ahead of the final, stating, “My phone has been blowing up… It’s been quite a lot. I mean, I’m going to respond to everyone when I’m finished. Now I’m going to focus on the matches I have to play.”
Both players have exhibited remarkable consistency throughout the tournament and show a promising future ahead in their careers. This final will be their first encounter at the professional level, adding an element of unpredictability to the prestigious event.
As the match approaches, Andreeva’s previous successes place her as the slight favorite, yet Tauson’s quick rise and resilience signify that this championship could swing in any direction. The court will see a clash of two uniquely talented players, making it a highly anticipated showdown for fans and tennis enthusiasts alike.