In an exhilarating Women’s Doubles Quarter-final at Roland-Garros on Court 7, the young and dynamic Russian pair of Mirra Andreeva and Diana Shnaider delivered a stellar performance to defeat the seasoned Czech duo Barbora Krejcikova and Katerina Siniakova. The match, which took place on Thursday, 1 August 2024, saw Andreeva and Shnaider triumph in straight sets, 6-1, 7-5, over the second-seeded Czechs. The contest, lasting 1 hour and 30 minutes, was a testament to the rising talent of Andreeva and Shnaider, who managed to outplay their more experienced opponents with a blend of power and finesse.
First Set: A Statement of Intent
The first set was a display of sheer dominance by Andreeva and Shnaider. They won 36 points to Krejcikova and Siniakova’s 24, showcasing a higher first serve percentage of 72% compared to the Czechs’ 68%. Despite both teams having similar success rates on their second serves, it was the Russians’ aggressive return game that made the difference. They won 54% of their receiving points, putting relentless pressure on Krejcikova and Siniakova, who struggled to convert their break point opportunities. The Czech team had six chances but failed to capitalize on any, while Andreeva and Shnaider converted two out of three break points. The first set ended in just 36 minutes with a decisive 6-1 victory for the Russians.
Andreeva and Shnaider’s strategy was clear: dominate the baseline rallies and capitalize on their opponents’ mistakes. They executed this plan to perfection, forcing Krejcikova and Siniakova into making 17 unforced errors while keeping their own to 10. The young Russian pair also demonstrated their prowess at the net and in extended rallies, showing maturity beyond their years.
Second Set: The Battle Intensifies
The second set was a much closer contest, as Krejcikova and Siniakova regrouped and raised their level of play. However, Andreeva and Shnaider maintained their composure and continued to serve effectively, boasting an 80% first serve success rate. They won 42 points to the Czechs’ 34, with both teams excelling in their second serve performances. The Russians’ superior service game and tactical returns proved crucial, as they managed to break the Czech serve twice out of five opportunities, while Krejcikova and Siniakova converted one out of their two break points.
The set saw a rise in intensity with longer rallies and more frequent exchanges at the net. Andreeva and Shnaider showcased their adaptability, winning 44% of their receiving points and consistently challenging the Czechs on their serve. The Russian duo’s ability to mix up their play with powerful forehands and strategic backhands kept Krejcikova and Siniakova on the defensive. Despite a strong fightback from the Czechs, Andreeva and Shnaider closed out the set 7-5, sealing their place in the semi-finals.
Match Statistics: A Comprehensive Victory
Throughout the match, Andreeva and Shnaider exhibited a well-rounded game with impressive statistics. They won a total of 78 points compared to the Czechs’ 58, and their first serve success rate was 76%, higher than Krejcikova and Siniakova’s 66%. The Russians’ aggressive play was reflected in their service winners, totaling 27 against the Czechs’ 18. They also excelled in break point conversions, winning four out of eight, while Krejcikova and Siniakova only managed to convert one out of eight opportunities.
The young Russian pair’s resilience and tactical intelligence were evident as they forced 17 errors from their opponents in the first set alone, and 17 more in the second. Andreeva and Shnaider’s ability to maintain pressure and exploit their opponents’ weaknesses played a significant role in their victory. Their success in this match highlights their potential to become a formidable force in women’s doubles tennis.
