Mirra Andreeva Advances in Madrid Open with Win Over Frech

MADRID — Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva reached the last 16 of the Madrid Open for the third consecutive year by defeating Poland’s Magdalena Frech 7-5, 6-3 on Saturday. The 17-year-old, currently ranked No. 7, has not lost before the fourth round in Madrid throughout her career.

Andreeva first made her mark in the tournament as a wild card at age 15, reaching the fourth round in 2023. Last year, she advanced to her first WTA 1000 quarterfinals in the same venue. Reflecting on her latest victory, Andreeva said, “I was very, very nervous. I still struggle to find my best tennis in Madrid. Super happy that I could manage to play consistent throughout the whole match.”

In her match against Frech, Andreeva demonstrated her resilience. After experiencing frustration during the first set due to Frech’s determined play, she regrouped to secure the win in 1 hour and 41 minutes. The match featured extended rallies, and Andreeva was effective during critical moments, especially with her service game improving significantly in the second set.

Andreeva’s next opponent will be Ukrainian qualifier Yuliia Starodubtseva, who upset the 18th seed Liudmila Samsonova in a dramatic match that saw her rally from 6-2, 3-1 down to win 2-6, 7-6(2), 6-0. This victory marks Starodubtseva’s second appearance in the last 16 of a WTA 1000 event, having previously reached the quarterfinals in Beijing last October.

With her latest victory, Andreeva extends her strong performance this season, having won 16 of her last 18 matches. This match in Madrid marks her 23rd win of the year, with her only losses occurring in Miami and Stuttgart. Also progressing in the doubles, Andreeva’s partner Diana Shnaider secured her own place in the last 16 with a decisive 6-0, 6-0 win over Anastasija Sevastova.