Mirra Andreeva wins first Indian Wells title in California

Mirra Andreeva, a 17-year-old from Russia, won her first Indian Wells title by defeating world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka. The final score was 2-6, 6-4, 6-3. This victory marks the second consecutive WTA 1000-level title for Andreeva. Andreeva is now the youngest woman to win this tournament since Serena Williams did it in 1999. She struggled at the start but found her form as the match continued. After hitting a forehand winner to end the match, she celebrated by falling to the ground. Sabalenka began strong but could not maintain her performance and missed key chances. “I would like to thank myself for fighting until the end,” Andreeva said. She described the match as very challenging, noting Sabalenka's powerful shots. In other news, Britain's Jack Draper secured the biggest title of his career by defeating Denmark's Holger Rune 6-2, 6-2. This victory guarantees Draper a spot in the top 10 for the first time. Draper, who has been dealing with a hip issue, played impressively throughout the match, hitting 21 winners. Rune, despite his experience in Masters 1000 finals, struggled with his game, accumulating more unforced errors than winners. Draper expressed excitement about his success, saying, “I would say this is one of my favourite tournaments now.”