Amanda Anisimova's path to the 2025 US Open quarterfinals was marked by resilience and redemption. Just two months prior, she faced a devastating 6-0, 6-0 loss to Iga Swiatek in the Wimbledon final, a match that left her emotionally and physically drained. Despite the overwhelming defeat, Anisimova chose not to dwell on the past but instead used it as motivation for her comeback. In preparation for their rematch at the US Open, she revisited the Wimbledon final, analyzing her performance to identify areas for improvement. This introspection paid off as she delivered a commanding 6-4, 6-3 victory over Swiatek, marking one of the most significant wins of her career.
Anisimova’s journey in tennis began in Boca Raton, Florida, where she quickly established herself as a prodigious talent. She won multiple ITF junior tournaments and steadily climbed the WTA rankings, gaining recognition for her aggressive baseline play and composure under pressure. Her breakthrough came when she reached the fourth round at the 2019 French Open and the semifinals at the 2019 US Open, signaling her arrival among the sport’s elite. These early successes laid the foundation for her mental toughness and competitive mindset, essential qualities that would fuel her comeback after Wimbledon.
The Wimbledon defeat was particularly hard-hitting, as it was Anisimova’s first Grand Slam final appearance, and the loss raised questions about her mental fortitude. However, she viewed the experience as a learning opportunity, acknowledging the need to manage nerves and maintain composure under pressure. Her ability to reflect constructively on the loss and channel that energy into improvement demonstrated her mental resilience and commitment to growth.
Off the court, Anisimova maintains a rigorous training routine. Her program includes strength and agility workouts, technical drills, and match simulations, with a focus on injury prevention and recovery, guided by physiotherapist Shadi Soleymani. After Wimbledon, she made specific tactical adjustments to face Swiatek again, refining her serve placement, improving her footwork, and adopting a more patient baseline strategy.
Anisimova also maintains a balanced personal life, dedicating time to family, hobbies, and mental health practices such as meditation and journaling. This holistic approach has helped her stay grounded amid the pressures of professional tennis.
Mental health has been a central focus for Anisimova, particularly after a challenging 2023 season when she took a break from competition. During this hiatus, she engaged in painting and quality time with loved ones, which helped her regain perspective and reignite her passion for the sport. Her openness about her struggles has resonated with many aspiring athletes, making her a role model for resilience and emotional intelligence.
Anisimova’s victory over Swiatek was more than a win; it was a testament to her growth as both a player and an individual. As she advances through the US Open, she continues to inspire with her dedication, strategic improvement, and mental fortitude. Looking ahead, Anisimova has set her sights on capturing her first Grand Slam title and further solidifying her place among the top-ranked players. With her combination of skill, discipline, and resilience, the tennis world will be watching closely as she continues her journey.