'I want to thank myself' - Mirra Andreeva's French Open victory

Mirra Andreeva, at the age of 19, expressed her gratitude by wearing a jacket with the phrase "I want to thank myself" as she celebrated her first Grand Slam title at the French Open. After defeating Polish qualifier Maja Chwalinska with a score of 6-3, 6-2, Andreeva became the youngest woman to win the Roland Garros singles title since Monica Seles in 1992. In her post-match comments, Andreeva began by thanking Chwalinska, the tournament organizers, and her team that includes her coach, Conchita Martinez, a former finalist at the French Open. However, she saved her most significant gratitude for herself.

"I also want to thank myself for believing in myself," Andreeva stated. "For giving 100% even when it’s been tough, trying every day to be better as a person and a player, believing I can do this, fighting so many demons inside of me. Only I know how tough it was for me and how nervous I was these past two weeks, so thanks to me for working so hard and giving my best."

Andreeva noted that she had used the phrase as a humorous touch after many of her past titles—a comical take she borrowed from rapper Snoop Dogg. Initially, it was meant to prompt laughter, but she later realized its significance in recognizing her hard work and efforts.

Previously, Andreeva had displayed emotional outbursts during matches that sometimes detracted from her performance. For instance, she faced challenges in a quarter-final at Roland Garros in 2025, where she struggled emotionally. However, this year, she showcased remarkable composure in her final match against Chwalinska, despite the unpredictable play and windy conditions.

Andreeva credited her psychologist, Alexis Castorri, for helping her manage her emotions, particularly recalling his advice on visualizing a "big stop sign" to regain control. She remarked, "My psychologist says you can always choose how you're going to be on the court, how you're going to play and who you're going to be as a person as well. I decided to choose to be a fighter." She added that watching Roger Federer’s matches influenced her perspective on maintaining composure and performance on the court.

After her victory, Andreeva shared a special moment with her coach, Conchita Martinez. Since they began working together in 2024, Martinez has guided Andreeva through five title victories. Andreeva described the relationship as one of deep camaraderie, sharing both joyful and challenging experiences.

Looking ahead, Andreeva is poised for further success as she transitions from clay to grass competitions. She became the first player born after 2005 to win a Grand Slam trophy, and former champion Maria Sharapova praised her, stating that Andreeva demonstrates "the signs of a champion." In her post-match conference, Andreeva expressed her eagerness to prepare for the grass season, remarking, "This thing is a little bit addicting. I really want to do my best to experience all of this for the second time."