Mirra Andreeva achieved her first victory over her older sister, Erika, at the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix. However, the win was bittersweet as Erika had to retire from the match due to injury when trailing 6-2, 1-0.
Despite the unusual circumstances of her win, Mirra, the No. 5 seed, took the opportunity to acknowledge her sister`s significant role in her tennis journey. She stated that Erika paved the way for her success, making it easier for Mirra to compete in major tournaments at a young age. Mirra expressed doubt that she would have reached her current level so quickly without Erika`s early influence and guidance.
Mirra admitted to experiencing mixed emotions after the match. While she should be happy about winning, she was also saddened by the way the match concluded due to Erika`s injury. Knowing Erika`s physical struggles beforehand, Mirra expressed hope for her sister`s full recovery and strong return to tennis.
Despite the somber mood surrounding Erika`s injury, Mirra brought a moment of cheer by leading the Stuttgart crowd in singing `Happy Birthday` to her coach, Conchita Martínez. This lighthearted gesture showcased Mirra`s ability to find positivity even in complex situations.
Looking ahead, Mirra is set to face Ekaterina Alexandrova in her next match, aiming for her fourth quarterfinal appearance in 2025. While this victory over Erika was not in ideal circumstances, it marks a significant moment in Mirra`s career as she continues her ascent in the world of tennis.