Andreeva talks about the advantages of working with a psychologist

Mirra Andreeva won the first WTA 1000 tournament of her career in Dubai, breaking into the top 10.

A victory that also marked a step forward in the mental aspect of her career, as the Russian confessed to working with a psychologist.

She says: "At the beginning, when we started working together, it was difficult for me, because she gave me advice, tips that I had to use on the court to make it all work for me.

And of course, in the beginning, I even forgot to apply them or think about them during training, during matches, because I wasn't used to it.

At the Dubai tournament, for whatever reason, it turned out to be easier for me to force myself to do it.

And I immediately felt the difference in my inner state during the matches. I started to support myself after every point.

Even after silly mistakes on my part, I found the strength to support myself and concentrate on the next rally.

I know that before that, balls and rackets would have been flying, I would have been screaming at everyone and saying it's over, I don't want to play this silly sport anymore."