Mirra Andreeva achieved her first professional victory over her older sister, Erika, at the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix on Wednesday. However, the win was not as anticipated, as Erika was unfortunately forced to withdraw from the match due to injury while trailing 6-2, 1-0.
Erika had previously defeated Mirra in their only prior professional match in Wuhan the previous year and, according to both sisters, had consistently won their practice sets since childhood. Competing in Stuttgart as a lucky loser, Erika initially broke Mirra`s serve in the opening game but then lost the subsequent two games and requested a medical timeout. Erika returned to the court with her right knee heavily taped, but Mirra then dominated the remainder of the match.
Following the match, the sisters shared a warm embrace at the net. Mirra, the No. 5 seed, then expressed her gratitude towards Erika, acknowledging her vital role in Mirra`s rapid progression into the Top 10.
During her on-court interview, Mirra stated, “If she hadn`t started playing tennis before me, I don`t think I would have reached this level so quickly. She began competing in tournaments before I did, and she really paved the way for me. Because of her example, it was easier for me to directly participate in larger tournaments. If it wasn`t for her, I doubt I would be playing in this tournament today.”
Mirra was aware of Erika`s physical struggles, saying, “We share a room, so I knew what she was experiencing.” Despite her win, Mirra expressed mixed emotions, “I have genuinely strange feelings. I should be happy that I won, but I`m also very sad that the match concluded in this manner. I am confident that she will take the necessary time to recover and return even stronger.”
Despite the bittersweet circumstances, Mirra still managed to find a moment of joy. With a playful look, she turned to her coach, Conchita Martínez, and announced her intention to “embarrass her a little.” Mirra then led the audience in singing `Happy Birthday` to Martínez, using her full first name, Concepción, with a smile.
Martínez graciously accepted the gesture, sending kisses to the crowd. Although it was a day of mixed emotions for the Andreeva family, Mirra`s career continues its upward trajectory. Her next challenge will be a first-time match against Ekaterina Alexandrova, as Mirra aims to secure her fourth quarterfinal appearance in 2025.
Jasper Hawthorne 
Dominic Ashworth