19-year-old Andreeva wins French Open, credits self-belief

Mirra Andreeva, at just 19, has ascended to the pinnacle of women's tennis, clinching her maiden Grand Slam title at the French Open. The Russian prodigy defeated Poland's Maya Chwalinska in straight sets, 6-3, 6-2, in a match that lasted 1 hour and 22 minutes. This victory makes Andreeva the youngest French Open women's singles champion since Monica Seles, who achieved the feat at 18 in 1992.

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I want to thank myself first for always believing in me, giving 100% even when it was tough, and striving to be better every day. I want to thank myself first for always believing in me, giving 100% even when it was tough, and striving to be better every day.

Andreeva, ranked 8th in the world, overcame a shaky start where she conceded an early lead to Chwalinska, who is ranked 114th. Battling against the challenging clay court conditions and the pressure of a major final, Andreeva showcased her powerful game and technical skill. She secured a crucial nine-game streak that effectively sealed her victory. Overcome with emotion, she collapsed onto the court at match point and later embraced her coaching team and even her dog.

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Before, I would feel like the world was ending if I lost just one service game and couldn't control my anger. But now, I think, 'So what? I'll break back in the next game.' This confidence in my game and myself is the biggest secret to this win.

Donning a jacket with her signature phrase "I want to thank myself," Andreeva expressed profound gratitude towards herself for her belief and perseverance. "I want to thank myself first for always believing in me, giving 100% even when it was tough, and striving to be better every day," she stated. She acknowledged the immense pressure and internal battles she fought over the two weeks, expressing pride in overcoming her anxieties. This mental resilience marks a significant development for the player, who was once criticized for emotional outbursts on court.

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I remember practicing on frozen floors in Krasnoyarsk in winter when there were no indoor courts. That exhausting cold and deprivation became the weapon that made me the strongest in the hot winds of Roland Garros today.

"Before, I would feel like the world was ending if I lost just one service game and couldn't control my anger," Andreeva explained. "But now, I think, 'So what? I'll break back in the next game.' This confidence in my game and myself is the biggest secret to this win." She also reflected on her challenging beginnings in Krasnoyarsk, Siberia, where she practiced on frozen courts, suggesting that those early hardships forged her strength. She also thanked her coach, 1994 Wimbledon champion Conchita Martínez, for her calm guidance and for pushing her limits.

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When my serve toss faltered due to the wind during matches, my coach's calm gaze from the stands would steady me. It must have been really hard for my team to accept me sometimes, as I can be a stubborn child. I deeply thank my team, who pushed me to my limits even when I didn't want to train, and especially Conchita, who gave me valuable advice based on her experience as a Roland Garros finalist.