Pegula calls Andreeva 'diva' in live-streamed practice row

Pegula's comments caught on microphone

World number five Jessica Pegula described Mirra Andreeva as a diva during a practice session at Indian Wells. The comments were picked up by a courtside microphone during a live-streamed WTA session.

“she's just a diva. She needs to be humbled.”

What Pegula said about Andreeva

Pegula told her coach Mark Knowles that Andreeva and her coach Conchita Martinez complained throughout the session even though Andreeva won every game. Pegula said Martinez encourages the behaviour.

“Conchita pokes her and eggs on her behaviour.”

Pegula also praised Andreeva's talent

Despite her criticism, Pegula praised Andreeva as wonderful and smart. She compared the French Open champion to world number four Coco Gauff, saying Andreeva has superior physical abilities but lacks Gauff's mentality.

“She moves like a cat. She's wonderful. She's got the perfect serve.”

Andreeva's background and achievements

Mirra Andreeva is world number three.Her coach Conchita Martinez, the 1994 Wimbledon champion, began working with her in April 2024.

Rybakina's separate practice incident

In a separate incident, world number one Elena Rybakina appeared to have an angry exchange with her coach Stefano Vukov before a practice session with Wimbledon champion Linda Noskova at Indian Wells.

WTA Finals and potential matchups

The season-ending WTA Finals run until November 15 at Indian Wells for the first time.Pegula and Andreeva are in different groups but could meet in the semi-finals or final.