​Varvara Grachova is one of the most trained players in Russia, the Moscow-born athlete is set to break into the WTA TOP-50 from next week. The newspaper L’Equipe writes that the athlete is one step away from representing another country as soon as possible.

Varvara GrachovaPhoto: ROB PRANGE / AFP / Profimedia

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Russian Varvara Grachova is one step away from playing for France

After qualifying in the 4th round in Miami, Varvara will fight with Petra Kvitova for a place in the quarterfinals of the tournament in Florida.

According to L’Equipe journalists, 22-year-old Grachova (currently ranked 54th in the world) is one step away from obtaining French citizenship.

Since 2016, the athlete has settled in France, submitted documents for citizenship and is currently in the process of obtaining it.

Varvara trains with Gerard Solves, prepares at the ETC Academy in Cannes, recently passed the French language test with flying colours.

As the citizenship is only a formality, according to the quoted source, Varvara is even expected to be able to represent France at the Billie Jean King Cup matches on April 14.

This season, Grachova played in the 3rd round of the Australian Open (she beat eighth-seeded Daria Kasatkina in the opening round), reached the final in Austin (defeated by Marta Kostyuk), reached the 4th round in Indian Wells (lost to Elena Rybakiniy , the future champion), and now in Miami she qualified for the fourth round (she sent home Ons Jabert – a two-time Grand Slam finalist and former WTA #2).

The good results of the last period are also felt in WTA Live, where Grachova currently ranks 44th (1164 points – the best result in her career).