The tennis world is in shock following recent statements from Conchita Martínez, coach of young Russian star Mirra Andreeva. The former Wimbledon champion broke her silence to reveal the devastating impact the cruel messages have had on her player following her defeat at the Miami Open, urging the public to stop before it’s too late.

Mirra Andreeva, just 17 years old, fell in the second round of the tournament to a higher-ranked opponent, a result that, while disappointing, was not unexpected given her youth and the fierce competition. However, what followed went far beyond the sporting realm. According to Martínez, the teenager was inundated with “sarcastic and abusive” messages on social media, which left her feeling deeply sad. “Mirra is devastated,” Martínez confessed in an emotional press conference. “She locked herself in her room, she won’t eat, she won’t drink, she won’t talk to anyone. This isn’t a game, it’s a child’s life.”

The visibly shaken Spanish coach described how disparaging comments about Andreeva’s performance—from taunts about her age to personal insults—have pushed the youngster to a dark place. “She’s strong on the court, but she’s still human,” Martínez added. “No one deserves this, much less a teenager taking her first steps in this demanding sport. Please leave her alone.”

The incident has once again highlighted the toxic side of social media in professional sports, where young athletes often become targets of vicious criticism. Sources close to Andreeva’s team confirmed that the player has shown signs of depression in recent days, avoiding contact even with her loved ones. “It’s heartbreaking to see her like this,” said one staff member, speaking on condition of anonymity. “She loves tennis, but this is destroying her.”

Martínez made an urgent plea to fans and the tennis community to reflect on the impact of her words. “Think twice before writing something cruel,” he pleaded. “Mirra is not just a tennis player, she’s a person. If we continue like this, we could lose her, not just from the sport, but from something much bigger. Forgive her; she’s just a girl trying to find her way.”

The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has yet to issue an official statement, but several prominent figures in the sport, including former players like Martina Navratilova, have expressed their support for Andreeva on social media. “Mirra’s talent is undeniable, but her mental health matters more,” Navratilova wrote. “Stop attacking her.”

As the Miami Open continues, attention has shifted from the tournament to Andreeva’s plight. Fans now hope that Conchita Martínez’s cry for help marks a turning point, not only for her protégé, but also for how young athletes are treated in the digital age. For now, the message is clear: “Stop hurting her. Give her space to heal.”