Mirra Andreeva tested her mettle with giant python before Australian Open upset

Mirra Andreeva is proved herself to be one of the most dangerous predators in Melbourne after an Australian Open upset of Ons Jabeur.

But behind the fearless mindset, the 16-year-old is an animal lover at heart, sharing her experience meeting a slew of exotic creatures before taking to Rod Laver Arena to score the biggest win of her career.

“When I arrived here, I saw that they would bring the animals on the 16th,” she explained to on-court interview Laura Robson after stunning Jabeur, a former world No. 2, 6-0, 6-2, to reach the third round.

“I told myself I had to be here on that day to watch all the animals and hold the snake. I did that with my agent; he was so scared, but I forced him to do it so we did it together. The animals are the only thing I’ve done so far in Melbourne!”

Well, not the only thing: Andreeva managed not only to earn her first career victory over a Top 10 player, but also overpower one of her idols—sharing with the crowd that she often watched Jabeur’s matches as she was still transitioning onto the pro tour from juniors.

“Of course, I would like to hit with her. Who would not like it?” a starstruck Andreeva said last spring at Roland Garros. “I met her because our coaches are in good relationship, so I’ve met her a couple of times. We said ‘Hi’ to each other, and it’s it, just for this moment. I hope that will change and maybe we can hit some time!”

Jabeur might be eager to book that practice session in the hopes of learning more about the teenager who dismantled her in under an hour.