Erika Andreeva achieved a remarkable feat by defeating her higher-ranked younger sister Mirra in their first professional meeting, successfully advancing to the last 16 at the prestigious Wuhan Open. This match marked a significant moment in tennis history as the Andreeva siblings became the first sisters to compete against each other in a WTA main draw match since Serena Williams triumphed over her older sister Venus at the Top Seed Open in Kentucky back in August 2020.
The intense matchup saw Erika, aged 20, claim victory with a decisive score of 6-3, 6-1 over her 17-year-old sister Mirra. Following this impressive win, Erika is set to face Italian world number six Jasmine Paolini in hopes of securing a spot in the quarter-finals. It is noteworthy that Mirra was seeded 16th in the tournament and, prior to their meeting, had openly stated that she and Erika had mutually agreed to share the prize money from their second-round encounter, regardless of the match outcome.
Last week, Mirra made headlines by becoming the youngest player since 2006 to be ranked within the top 20, thanks to her successful run to the quarter-finals at the China Open held in Beijing. However, despite her higher ranking and being considered the favorite against Erika, Mirra accurately anticipated that competing against her sister would be “a nightmare.”
Erika’s journey into the tournament was not without its challenges. In her five prior Grand Slam appearances, she had yet to advance beyond the second round. Nevertheless, as a lucky loser entry into the Wuhan main draw, she seized the opportunity and rose to the occasion against her younger sibling. The emotional intensity of the match was undeniable, especially for Mirra, who admitted to feeling anxious about facing an opponent so familiar with her playing style.
The match began with Mirra displaying early promise, breaking serve to take a 3-1 lead. However, Erika quickly shifted the momentum in her favor. She clinched three consecutive breaks of serve, mounting a five-game streak that allowed her to secure the first set with a solid 6-3 score. Not one to rest on her laurels, Erika extended her momentum into the second set, showcasing her dominance by winning an impressive eight consecutive games. This surge included establishing a commanding 3-0 lead in the second set, and she soon earned another crucial break that paved the way for her victory.
The match concluded with Erika not only celebrating her success but also reflecting on the unique nature of facing a sibling in such a competitive environment. After successfully converting her third match point, she emerged victorious, embodying both the competitive spirit and familial bond that can occasionally intertwine in the world of professional sports. This victory not only marked a personal achievement for Erika but also highlighted the profound journey of both sisters as they navigate their careers in the highly competitive arena of professional tennis.
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