Andreeva wins French Open title, thanks herself in moving speech
Mirra Andreeva claimed her first Grand Slam title at the French Open on Saturday, defeating Polish qualifier Maja Chwalinska 6-3, 6-2 in a composed final performance. The Russian eighth seed, aged 19, becomes the youngest French Open champion in more than 30 years.
Speaking at the trophy ceremony, Andreeva had warm words for her opponent before reflecting on the significance of the moment. "You're a very tricky opponent. Wouldn't want to play you one more time. No, it's ok. I hope we play many more finals in the future," she said. "It was a big dream of mine to win this tournament. I can't believe that I'm holding this trophy."
The teenager paid tribute to her support team, singling out coach Conchita Martinez — the 2000 French Open finalist — for special mention. "I can be a tough cookie sometimes and it's hard to put up with me. Thanks for always pushing me to my limits, thanks for making me work when I don't want to," Andreeva said. "Thanks also to Conchita for sharing her experience giving me advice. Thanks to everyone on my team, special thanks to my parents for believing in me. My dad's watching on TV."
In a memorable closing to her speech, Andreeva reserved gratitude for herself, acknowledging the mental battles she faced along the way. "Last but not least, I want to thank myself for believing and always giving my 100%, even when it was tough, for trying to be better as a person and player, fighting so many demons. Only I know how tough it was, how nervous I was. Thanks to myself for working so hard and giving my best."
Chwalinska, 24, was gracious in defeat despite being unable to test Andreeva across the two sets. "Congratulations to Mirra, such an incredible player, so young and so talented, it's so annoying. Congratulations to your team as well, for an amazing job, and all the best for the future," she said. "I wish we could see a better match today, but Mirra is too good, so I guess it's her fault. I tried my best and I'm sorry. I will never forget these three weeks. Paris will forever be in my heart. Merci."
SportsLigue
