The Guardian

Andreeva’s French Open triumph shows value of Martínez and women coaches | Tumaini Carayol

Mirra Andreeva’s rise to glory at Roland Garros owes so much to her lighthearted relationship with her coach, Conchita Martínez Conchita Martínez was in the middle of her account of her charge’s run to a first grand-slam title when she was rudely interrupted by a late arrival. Pursued by the rest of her team, tournament officials and a gloved staff member carrying the Coupe Suzanne-Lenglen, Mirra Andreeva entered the main interview room with the sole objective of causing mischief. She interjected with a question. “What is the best thing about working with Mirra Andreeva?” the new French Open champion asked. When Martínez responded by explaining that she most values playing Uno against Andreeva and always winning, the 19-year-old raised her eyebrows and moved towards the exit. “That’s it? Have fun,” she said, smiling. As Andreeva left the room, Martínez wondered aloud if she had just been fired. Continue reading...