World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka commented on Mirra Andreeva`s departure from the Miami Open singles tournament. The 17-year-old Russian player was defeated in the third round by Amanda Anisimova with a score of 6-7(5), 6-2, 3-6.
When asked about Andreeva`s loss and whether it was due to health issues or fatigue, and if she sees Andreeva as a future world No. 1, Sabalenka responded:
“It was predictable that she wouldn`t fully cope, not so much with pressure… I don`t know how to describe it, but we all go through this. A winning streak at such a young age, it`s hard to manage all the emotions. I mentioned that she seemed a bit out of sorts. It happens; it`s experience, and you need to go through it.”
Regarding Andreeva`s potential to reach the Top 3, Sabalenka stated, “I can`t predict that; she needs to gain experience. Physically, she is ready, but mentally, she needs to play more to become consistent. I`m sure she will get there sooner than we think.”
Addressing the negative comments Andreeva received on social media, Sabalenka shared her own experiences and advice: “She should laugh at it. I don`t want to offend anyone, but the people who write these comments to her… It`s ridiculous! She is a 17-year-old girl, still a child. Grown adults writing comments to her… They shouldn`t be respected, you shouldn`t pay attention to them, or even waste your energy. Just laugh, realize how successful you are, and move on.”
“We all dealt with hate, we all went through it. People who write comments, something in their lives didn`t work out. All they can do is hope for our bad results to bring them some kind of satisfaction. It`s laughable,” concluded Sabalenka.
