DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Russian prodigy Mirra Andreeva has made history by becoming the youngest athlete to reach the final of a WTA 1000 tournament following her victory over sixth-seeded Elena Rybakina, clinching the match with scores of 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 at the Dubai Championships on Friday.

At just 17 years old, Andreeva found herself down 3-1 in the deciding third set, yet she rallied to win the final five games, earning her a spot in her second tour-level final. The young star previously triumphed at the Iasi Open in Romania last July.

Reflecting on her approach to the game, Andreeva remarked, “Whether I lose 6-0, 5-0 or win 7-5, 6-4, it doesn’t matter. I just focus on my shots and aim to deliver my best performance.”

In the upcoming final, Andreeva will face either Clara Tauson, the Danish player who recently eliminated top seed Aryna Sabalenka, or Karolina Muchova.

With her impressive victories against Rybakina, Iga Swiatek, and Marketa Vondrousova during the tournament, Andreeva has also set a notable record by becoming the youngest player to defeat three Grand Slam champions in a single event since Maria Sharapova did so at the WTA Finals in 2004.

Discussing Andreeva’s potential, Rybakina acknowledged, “She has a tremendous future ahead of her, and she is undoubtedly a formidable opponent.”