Teenager Mirra Andreeva says knocking out her idol Ons Jabeur in the Australian Open was “probably” the best display of her fast-developing career.
The 16-year-old showed once again why is she is one of the sport’s rising stars by demolishing an out-of-sorts Jabeur in a 6-0 6-2 second-round win.
“It was one of my dreams to play against her because I really like the way she plays,” said the 47th-ranked Russian, who won in 54 minutes.
“It means a lot to win this match.”
Former world number one Caroline Wozniacki is also out of the season-opening Grand Slam tournament after letting a lead slip against Russian qualifier Maria Timofeeva.
Wozniacki, playing in her second major event since returning last year from having two children, was beaten 1-6 6-4 6-1 in the 20-year-old’s first main-draw match at a Slam.
Timofeeva, ranked 170th, said beating a player of 2018 champion Wozniacki’s stature had left her “speechless”.
“I was going into the match without any expectations, just to show what I’m capable of. I enjoyed every second of it,” she added.
US Open champion Coco Gauff is through to the third round after a 7-6 (7-2) 6-2 win over fellow American Caroline Dolehide.
Those matches took place indoors on the main show courts because of heavy rain in Melbourne. The start of play was delayed by more than four hours on the outside courts.
