Mirra Andreeva thought she had landed herself in hot water after beating Marie Bouzkova.
Mirra Andreeva made a teasing comment about her coach after beating Marie Bouzkova
Mirra Andreeva joked that she had landed herself ‘in trouble’ after making a comment about her coach following her victory over Marie Bouzkova at the Australian Open.
The teenager made a perfect start to the first Grand Slam of the year by cruising to a 6-3 6-3 triumph and booking her place in the second round. She will be hoping to maintain her winning form in her next match against Moyuka Uchijima on Wednesday.
Andreeva was quizzed on her relationship with her coach, former Wimbledon champion Conchita Martinez, after beating Bouzkova. She was asked if Martinez was fun to work with and gave a cheeky answer, acknowledging that it might land her in trouble.
Conchita Martinez helped Andreeva to reach the semi-finals of last year’s French Open (Image: GETTY)
“No, it depends on her mood to be honest,” said Andreeva. “I would say she’s an okay coach.” It prompted laughter from the crowd, with Andreeva nervously responding: “Oh my gosh, I’m in trouble guys.”
The young Russian did have some kind words for Martinez, though, explaining that she has become more ‘fearless’ as a result of their partnership.
“With her I became closer to being fearless,” she said. “Before I would never play a volley in match point. Here I decided why not. Marie was putting every ball back. I was so tired, like: ‘What is this?’.
“I really like our relationship, because, well, I like to joke around. Sometimes I just, you know, I don’t really like to be very serious. I always try to smile and laugh. It’s just easier like this. Actually, I was surprised in the beginning that she’s also pretty much like me.
“Since we first started working together, I have noticed that she’s always also trying to say a joke or just laugh sometimes. I also like that she’s still separating those things when we’re on court.”
Asked if she had taught Martinez anything since joining forces with the Spaniard, Andreeva replied: “Nothing! I would say now that she has a better sense of humour with me.
“Before I’d say it was, you know, not so good. It was okay. Now when she’s with me everyone is always laughing at her jokes, thanks to me.”
Andreeva reached the fourth round of last year’s Australian Open, eventually losing at the hands of Barbora Krejcikova. She will be hoping to improve on that run at this year’s tournament, having emerged as one of the sport’s brightest young stars.
News
Emma Raducanu accepts Qatar Open wildcard as Brit seeks to end losing streak
Emma Raducanu has accepted a late wildcard to play the Qatar Open in Doha. Emma Raducanu has lost all of her last three matches (Image: Getty) Emma Raducanu has accepted a late wildcard to play next week’s Qatar Masters as she bids…
Emma Raducanu’s schedule unclear after losing three matches in a row
Emma Raducanu’s schedule is up in the air following her Abu Dhabi Open exit. Emma Raducanu’s schedule is uncertain following her Abi Dhabu defeat (Image: Getty) Emma Raducanu’s upcoming WTA Tour schedule remains up in the air. The Brit has lost her last…
Daniil Medvedev involved in very tense moment with rival after body hit
Daniil Medvedev was involved in an uneasy flashpoint at the Rotterdam Open. Daniil Medvedev flashed a stern look at Mattia Bellucci at the end of the point (Image: TENNIS TV) Daniil Medvedev flashed a steely look at Mattia Bellucci after the Italian…
Tennis star Danielle Collins shades critics with latest ‘kiss my a–‘ video in Bahamas
Danielle Collins has made good on her promise to rub Australia’s face in it. The former Australian Open finalist was booed off court after her third round defeat to eventual champion Madison Keys after the Melbourne crowd turned on her. The hot-headed…
Tennis fans stunned after Zizou Bergs tackled Cristian Garin during Davis Cup — and still won: ‘Shocking decision’
The Davis Cup tie between Belgium and Chile descended into chaos after a Belgian player won his match despite shoulder-charging his opponent, who pleaded for the match to be stopped. Belgium edged Chile 3-1 in the first round of Davis…
Carlos Alcaraz concedes to Jannik Sinner as Spaniard makes ‘crazy’ admission
Carlos Alcaraz has made where he stands on Jannik Sinner clear. Carlos Alcaraz has hailed Jannik Sinner. (Image: TENNIS TV) Carlos Alcaraz has conceded that Jannik Sinner is currently on another level than him and every other player on the ATP…
End of content
No more pages to load