Victoria Mboko made a striking statement at the Qatar TotalEnergies Open, staging a remarkable comeback to defeat rising star Mirra Andreeva in the third round. The Canadian teen faced match point against her opponent but remained calm and focused, treating the decisive rally as just another point. "I don't really think much of it," Mboko said after the match. "I just think of it as any other point in the match."
Her composure paid off. Mboko drew a double fault from Andreeva and mounted a determined comeback, ultimately winning 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (5). The victory, her first at the Qatar Open, showcased her resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
The match also reignited their budding rivalry. Just weeks earlier, Andreeva had defeated an injured Mboko in the Adelaide International final. In Doha, Mboko approached the court with renewed energy and a fresh mindset, leaving past results behind. While Andreeva, 18, has been a consistent presence on the WTA Tour, Mboko has also made rapid strides, capturing two titles in 2025 and reaching the second week of the Australian Open. Their growing rivalry is quickly becoming one of tennis’s most exciting narratives.
Despite the fierce competition, the two players share mutual respect. Mboko finds inspiration in Andreeva’s early success, noting that seeing her achievements motivates her to continue improving.
Mboko’s win propels her into her first career quarterfinal at the Qatar Open, where she will face the winner of the clash between Australian Open champion Elena Rybakina and Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen. "Whoever wins, I just know I'm going to have a really tough opponent tomorrow," she said.
This breakthrough highlights Mboko’s fighting spirit, mental toughness, and rising presence on the WTA Tour, offering a compelling glimpse of a bright future for the young Canadian.
