Mirra Andreeva had a 2025 to remember despite hitting a stumbling block in the latter stages of the season.
The Russian star reached a career-high ranking of world number five in the summer, following her landmark success at Indian Wells.
Disappointing form on the Asian swing caused Andreeva to narrowly miss out on WTA Finals qualification, but the 18-year-old still has plenty to be proud of heading into 2026.
Andreeva is set for the Adelaide International as her first tournament of 2026, and she has explained several off-court goals she wants to achieve across the season.
Mirra Andreeva shares the Rafael Nadal advice that inspired her
Speaking on court at the Macau Tennis Masters, Andreeva revealed several goals she wants to achieve that have nothing to do with winning tournaments.
“Of course, I want to win a couple Grand Slams. That would be great & honestly just want to stay and be me.”
Do you think women should play best-of-five set matches?
The star said she was inspired by Rafael Nadal’s ‘stay humble’ mantra, which she takes onto the court in every game.
She said: “I would say to be a player that everyone would remember for being curious on court, do whatever she wants on the court, interesting to watch, and always stay humble like Rafa said.
“I just want to be a player to remember on the Tour, and I hope that I can achieve that in my career.”
With two singles tournaments, as well as a doubles crown in 2025, Andreeva is well on her way to achieving just that.
Mirra Andreeva defeats Alexandra Eala in exhibition contest
Andreeva bounced back from illness to return at the Macau Tennis Masters to face Alexandra Eala in singles action.
What is your bold prediction for the 2026 tennis season?
The Russian star impressed as she ran to a straight-sets victory against her Filipina opponent at the Chinese event.
Despite suffering an illness just 24 hours before, Andreeva dropped just six games as she swept aside the 20-year-old.
Andreeva is competing for Team Europe, alongside Alejandro Davidovich and Belinda Bencic, against a Team World made up of Eala, Elena Rybakina, and Jerry Shang .
