Magdalena Frech produced a remarkable comeback to defeat sixth seed Mirra Andreeva in the opening round of the 2025 Berlin Open. She recorded a 2-6, 7-5, 6-0 victory that marked her second career win against a top-10 player.
The Polish world No. 52 looked outmatched in the opening set as 18-year-old Andreeva dictated play from the baseline. The Russian, currently ranked No. 7, used her backhand with precision and closed the first set with a well-timed drop shot that left Frech stranded. Andreeva appeared poised to advance comfortably.
However, the match shifted dramatically in the second set. Frech raised her defensive intensity and began forcing longer rallies. She capitalized on a series of unforced errors from Andreeva, who began showing signs of frustration. A critical break of serve late in the set allowed Frech to level the match at one set apiece, shifting the momentum completely in her favor.
In the third set, Frech overwhelmed the Russian with clean hitting and consistent depth. She broke serve three times and did not face a single break point. The set ended in a lopsided 6-0 scoreline, marking the first time in Andreeva’s professional career that she has lost a deciding set without winning a game.
The match lasted just over two hours and highlighted Frech’s resilience and ability to capitalize on a top seed’s dip in form. For Andreeva, it was a stark reminder of the physical and mental demands of the grass-court season, especially ahead of Wimbledon.
Frech, who notched her first top 10 win last year, now advances to the round of 16 where she awaits the winner of the match between Amanda Anisimova and Bianca Andreescu.
Elsewhere in Berlin, Tunisian star Ons Jabeur took full advantage of her lucky loser entry into the main draw. The former world No. 2 defeated Caroline Dolehide of the United States in straight sets, winning 7-6, 6-1. Jabeur struggled to find rhythm early but found her range in the second set to seal the match without much resistance. She will next face fourth seed Jasmine Paolini in what is expected to be one of the round’s key matchups.
World No. 9 Emma Navarro continued her consistent form with a straight-sets win to reach the next round. Swiss player Rebeka Masarova also advanced, continuing her surprise run through the draw.
The Berlin Open is one of the key grass-court events leading up to Wimbledon, and early results have already delivered several surprises. With Andreeva’s exit and Jabeur’s resurgence, the field remains wide open.
Frech’s upset sends a clear message that the rankings can mean little on grass. As the tournament progresses, her form and composure under pressure could make her a dangerous outsider heading into the deeper rounds.