Mirra Andreeva reveals she recently started working with a sports psychologist and it is already paying offsince she used one of the advice received while facing a second-set deficit against Iga Swiatek.
On Thursday, the rising Russian star booked her maiden WTA 1000 semifinal ticket in style after ousting the second-seeded Pole 6-3 6-3 in the Dubai quarterfinal.
But before the No. 12 seed got the job done in two sets, she was 1-3 down in the second set.
However, Andreeva didn't panic and she impressively won the next five games to complete her straight-set win.
Later, she credited the work with a psychologist for the way she reacted in those moments.
I have some new tips. I have some new advices in a way how to work with my anger inside, what to do when I don't feel great, how to maintain my level when I feel great, how to keep being me," the 17-year-old tennis.com.
Andreeva: I was 1-3 down but I felt strong
With Swiatek leading 2-1 in the second set, the Russian had two break points to get the break back but didn't convert.
In the past, the Russian would probably lose her cool a bit after missing out on some chances against a top player and then falling behind.
But this time, she remained calm and composed.
Today when I was losing 1-3, I just honestly knew I was right there with her," Andreeva explained.
"It was just a matter of some points that didn't go my way.
I felt like it was out there on the court that I felt like still 1-3, but I feel strong.
"Yeah, I just thought that, Okay, it's going to take some time but I'm going to go back and I'm going to try to come back and win the second set.
It is worth mentioning that Swiatek has also been working with a sports psychologist for years now and has often credited Daria Abramowicz for her success and being where she is today.
