Petrova: Andreyeva’s slump is related to her age, and excessive media attention makes her uneasy

When mentioning the Russian rising star Andreyeva, many feel a sense of regret. Despite holding two WTA 1000 singles titles this season, she missed the year-end finals, and her performance in the second half of the year was quite disappointing. Many fans worry she might be just a fleeting talent. However, former Russian star Petrova recently stated in an interview that this is merely a “growing pain period,” and as Andreyeva matures, everything will improve.

Speaking about this tennis newcomer, she expressed great satisfaction: “She and her team set clear goals and achieved them very quickly. Winning two consecutive WTA 1000 titles and swiftly breaking into the top ten, even reaching the top five — I think this was a pleasant surprise for them.”

However, her poor form in the latter half of the year and missing the year-end finals caused widespread concern about the future of this Russian star. Petrova attributes these issues to her age and psychological factors.

Petrova said, “I believe her difficult period is related to her age; it can be seen as a transitional phase in her career. She must go through this process and learn to manage her emotions and feelings.”

According to Petrova, Andreyeva’s team initially set goals that were surpassed too quickly, and such success requires time to digest and adapt to. The sudden surge of media attention, along with comparisons to stars and legends like Sharapova and Sabalenka, further disrupted her growth rhythm. Petrova remarked, “Clearly, all this unexpected pressure has made Mira feel unsettled.”

As a veteran who has experienced the ups and downs of the tour, Petrova’s comments highlight a common problem in women’s tennis regarding how superstars are treated: there is little buffer between excessive praise and harsh criticism.

“She is a smart girl with an excellent team. I believe they will explain everything to her, and she will give her best and stabilize emotionally.” Petrova remains confident in Andreyeva’s team and future. Rather than just commentary, this statement is more a protective support from a senior to a junior player.

Tennis psychologist Dr. Amanda Johnson agreed, saying: “For teenage champions, external expectations often grow exponentially, while their psychological maturity develops linearly. Media and fans need to learn to manage their expectations and give these young athletes space to breathe and grow. Petrova pointed out the key — this is not a technical issue but a self-management lesson essential for growth.”

Petrova’s interview quickly sparked debate on social media, with opinions divided. Some supported her: “Petrova is right! We forget she’s only 18 but demand the standards of a 28-year-old veteran. Give her some time! The media constantly comparing her to Sharapova is unfair. Every player is unique, and her journey is just beginning.” Others added, “Seeing her under so much pressure is heartbreaking. Hopefully, her team can protect her and shield her from the noise.”

However, some expressed opposing views: “Top-level sports are harsh. Choosing this path means accepting the spotlight and pressure. It’s part of the profession. If she can’t handle media attention, how will she cope with pressure on Grand Slam center courts? Elite players need a strong mindset. Other peers also face attention; the key is how one and their team guide it. You can’t always blame external factors for performance fluctuations.”

More rational voices also emerged. One commenter noted, “Petrova’s value lies in pointing out the unexpected pressure success brings — when you exceed goals early, what’s the next step? This psychological confusion is something many rising stars are unprepared for.”

Regardless of public debate, Andreyeva’s career is undoubtedly at a crucial crossroads. How she manages fame, expectations, and continuous progress will determine whether she is a brief shooting star or a lasting star in the tennis sky.

But as Petrova hinted, great champions need not only to win matches but also to master the art of living with themselves and the world. For Andreyeva, this inner battle may just be beginning.(Source: Tennis Home Author: Lu Xiaotian)