Andreeva dismantles nervous Kostyuk amid tense backdrop of Russia-Ukraine war

• Russian teen reaches French Open final in 6-1, 6-3 win

• Kostyuk swerves pose with Andreeva in pre-match photo

Mirra Andreeva took a significant step towards fulfilling her boundless talent as she produced a brilliantly composed and mature performance to reach her first grand slam final at Roland Garros. Andreeva viciously dismantled a painfully nervous Marta Kostyuk 6-1, 6-3 in the most high-profile encounter between a Russian and Ukrainian player since Russia invaded Kostyuk’s homeland four years ago.

Andreeva will attempt to become just the third-youngest first time grand slam champion in the 21st century, behind only 17-year-old Maria Sharapova and an 18-year old Emma Raducanu. Still only 19, Andreeva has been competing at the highest level since she was 15 and it has taken some time for the Russian to manage her temper, emotions and the pressure that accompanies her massive ambition. Finally, it appears that she is ready to step forward and stake her claim for the biggest titles.