Andreeva claims maiden Grand Slam at French Open with mature display
The Russian teenager, playing under neutral status, credits improved emotional composure and self-belief for her dominant victory over Polish qualifier Maja Chwalinska.
Mirra Andreeva has secured her maiden Grand Slam title at the 2026 French Open, defeating Polish qualifier Maja Chwalinska 6-3, 6-2 in the women’s singles final. The victory establishes the 19-year-old as the youngest woman to win the Roland Garros singles title since Monica Seles in 1992 and marks the first time a player born after 2005 has lifted a Grand Slam trophy.
Andreeva, who competes under a neutral status due to geopolitical tensions, delivered a remarkably composed performance in one hour and 22 minutes. Her conduct stood in stark contrast to previous major tournaments, where she had been prone to emotional outbursts, including a racquet-smashing incident at Indian Wells and a heated quarter-final defeat at last year’s Roland Garros. This time, she maintained her demeanour despite unpredictable conditions and Chwalinska’s resilience.
In her post-match address, Andreeva highlighted the role of her support network, specifically crediting coach Conchita Martinez and psychologist Alexis Castorri. Castorri, who previously worked with Andy Murray, utilised a visualisation technique involving a "big stop sign" to help Andreeva manage her emotions. Andreeva also noted she studied Roger Federer’s on-court behaviour to adopt a more composed presence, aiming to avoid frustration and maintain a professional appearance.
A recurring theme of the teenager’s speech was gratitude towards herself, a phrase emblazoned on her black jacket. She explained that while the sentiment, adapted from rapper Snoop Dogg, initially drew laughter, she recognised the importance of self-recognition for the hard work and nerves endured. "Only I know how tough it was for me and how nervous I was these past two weeks, so thanks to me for working so hard and giving my best," she said.
Andreeva’s partnership with Martinez, which began in 2024, has been instrumental in her recent success, overseeing all five of her WTA Tour titles. The pair share a close bond, with Andreeva citing Martinez’s pride as a special motivator following a difficult end to the previous season. Maria Sharapova, the last Russian woman to win a major singles title, praised Andreeva’s celebration as a sign of a champion who is excited but not yet satisfied.
Looking ahead, Andreeva expressed immediate ambition for the grass court season, describing the experience as "addicting." She has found particular comfort on clay this season, winning 22 of her 25 matches on the surface, more than any other player on the WTA Tour. Her focus now shifts to replicating this success on different surfaces as she continues her rise in professional tennis.
