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[Saba Sports News] LeBron James has long inspired athletes on the basketball court, but now his influence has extended to women’s tennis.
Rising star Mirra Andreeva credited a past James interview for fueling her comeback victory at the WTA BNP Paribas Open, where she overcame a tough start to defeat world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka 2-6, 6-4, 6-3.
Ahead of her match, the 17-year-old listened to James’ words about mental toughness:
“Even if you don’t feel 100% physically, I’m going to choose to be 100% mentally. That’s what makes us champions,” James once said.
Andreeva embraced that mindset, admitting it didn’t click immediately but ultimately helped her push through and play like a legend.
With her Indian Wells victory, Andreeva became the youngest female player to win back-to-back WTA 1000 titles since 1997, having also won the Dubai Championships two weeks earlier.
James took notice of her praise and responded via Instagram:
“Mirra, CONGRATULATIONS!!!! Happy to have helped, but honestly, YOU did THAT!! All your hard work, drive, and dedication toward your craft! KEEP GOING!” He signed off with his signature hashtag, #StriveForGreatness.
Andreeva, however, didn’t just credit LeBron—she also made sure to recognize herself.
“I would again like to thank myself for fighting until the end, always believing in me, and never quitting,” she said post-match.
The Russian-born phenom has now beaten five straight top-10 players, including No. 1 Sabalenka and No. 2 Iga Swiatek, becoming the first player under 18 to defeat the top two seeds at the same WTA tournament since Serena Williams at the 1999 US Open.