US Open star admits to 'crush' on doubles partner ahead of semi-final showdown
US Open star admits to 'crush' on doubles partner ahead of semi-final showdown
Yasmin SyedThu, August 27, 2026 at 8:46 AM UTC
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Mirra Andreeva admitted she used to have a 'crush' on Andrey Rublev -Credit:Getty
Mirra Andreeva and Andrey Rublev secured their spot in the US Open mixed doubles semi-finals on Tuesday with two commanding victories, before the French Open winner disclosed she once harbored a childhood "crush" on the ATP No. 24.
The Russian pair rallied from a set deficit to defeat two-time reigning champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori 1-4 4-1 [11-9] in their first match at Flushing Meadows, then overcame Diana Shnaider and Casper Ruud 4-1 4-5(9) [10-5] before Andreeva shared her revelation with Rublev and the audience.
"I've never said anything, I've never told him anything as well, but I used to have a little crush on him as well," the 19 year old admitted as the Louis Armstrong Stadium audience erupted in laughter and collective "aww" sounds. It comes as Aryna Sabalenka blasted over 'trashy' US Open outfit in Novak Djokovic defeat.
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"So yeah, you know, it's like a dream come true to play with my favourite..." Andreeva went on, before Rublev cut in to embrace her. "I'm super happy that we were able to play together, to get the win together and create so many great memories. I'm super happy to play by his side."
Following the match, the French Open champion expanded on her former infatuation, though acknowledged those feelings belonged to the past. "I mean, first of all, his hair, okay?" she chuckled, reports the Express.
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" So many interviews I saw and so many things that I heard from other people, I just knew he's a great person.
"I didn't know him at that time yet. I don't know, I just feel like he's super kind, very nice with everyone. Again, the hair. I don't know, everyone said that every time he would step on court, he would look tired. I don't know, he was looking great every time for me."
Andrey Rublev and Mirra Andreeva are into the US Open mixed doubles semi-finals -Credit:Getty
During the on-court interview, Rublev found the admission endearing, though he chalked up Andreeva's youthful infatuation to a passing phase.
The 28 year old offered his take: "You know this typical moments when the kids, they don't have taste yet, they need to try some stupid things before they start to have it?".
"I was in the part of stupid thing, in the transition moment. I think she was feeling like when you see a cat on the street. You feel, like, sorry."
The duo of Andreeva and Rublev are scheduled to compete on Arthur Ashe Stadium Wednesday, squaring off against Karolina Muchova and Jakub Mensik with a spot in the mixed doubles final on the line.
Meanwhile, Elina Svitolina and Gael Monfils will battle Belinda Bencic and Flavio Cobolli in the other semifinal matchup. The winning pair takes home $1million.
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
