(In Australia) Aussie star Daria Kasatkiina throws her wristband at opponent Mirra Andreeva after losing at the French Open

 

At the 2025 French Open, Daria Kasatkina, now representing Australia, faced her close friend Mirra Andreeva in the fourth round, losing 6-3, 7-5. After the match, Kasatkina playfully threw her wristband at Andreeva during their net handshake, a moment that sparked chatter but was rooted in their strong friendship. The two, despite a 10-year age gap, share a tight bond, often practicing together and featuring in Kasatkina’s vlogs. Andreeva, an 18-year-old Russian-born player, kept the wristband as a memento, calling it a “nice gesture” and revealing they exchanged warm words post-match.  

The lighthearted exchange contrasted with initial misinterpretations, amplified when Andreeva jokingly told the crowd she “hated” Kasatkina, a playful nod to their competitive yet friendly rivalry. Their history adds context: Kasatkina had previously defeated Andreeva in the 2024 Ningbo Open final, where Andreeva needed comforting after a tough loss. In Paris, Andreeva’s focus on “playing the ball, not the opponent” showcased her mental growth, helping her overcome the emotional challenge of facing a friend.  Kasatkina, in her first Grand Slam as an Australian, was proud of her performance despite not advancing. 

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She aimed to be the first Australian woman to reach the French Open quarter-finals since Ash Barty’s 2019 run but fell short. The wristband toss, far from a sign of tension, highlighted the camaraderie between the players, endearing them to fans. Andreeva’s maturity and Kasatkina’s sportsmanship underscored a match that was as much about friendship as competition, leaving a lasting impression at Roland Garros.