NEW DELHI: Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva made history by becoming the youngest player to reach the women's quarter-finals at the French Open since 2005.
On Monday, she defeated home favorite Varvara Gracheva in Paris, securing a 7-5, 6-2 victory at Roland Garros to book her spot in the last eight of a Grand Slam for the first time.
At just 17 years and 27 days old, Andreeva is the youngest female player to make it to the quarters since Bulgarian Sesil Karatantcheva did so at the age of 15.
Andreeva has been impressive throughout the tournament, having dropped only one set so far. Her next challenge will be against world number two Aryna Sabalenka, a formidable opponent.
Gracheva, who obtained French nationality last year after qualifying under residency rules, was the last remaining home player in either singles draw. Despite her defeat, Gracheva's journey added a notable chapter to the tournament.
"When they were screaming 'Varvara, Varvara, Varvara', I imagined they were screaming my name and it really helped," Andreeva said.
"It was tough to play against a French crowd but I'm happy that I managed to get through it."
Andreeva, who made her Grand Slam debut at the French Open 12 months ago and reached the third round, has since progressed to the last 16 at both Wimbledon and the Australian Open.
Currently, she is the only unseeded women's player remaining in the tournament, adding an extra layer of intrigue to her impressive run at Roland Garros.
(With AFP inputs)
