Anisimova's Journey Back to Wimbledon
Amanda Anisimova is set to compete at Wimbledon this year, bringing with her a mix of fond memories and a strong desire to improve upon her last appearance. A year ago, Anisimova reached her first Grand Slam final after a demanding semifinal victory over Aryna Sabalenka. However, the final against Iga Swiatek resulted in a swift 6-0, 6-0 loss in just 57 minutes, a scoreline not seen in a Wimbledon ladies' singles final since 1911.
"I got a bit frozen with my nerves," Anisimova reflected on that match, expressing confidence that the experience would ultimately make her stronger.
The immediate aftermath of that defeat, marked by visible discomfort and tears, left many wondering about her recovery. Yet, Anisimova demonstrated remarkable resilience, bouncing back just six weeks later at the US Open. There, she overcame Swiatek in the quarter-finals and subsequently defeated two-time winner Naomi Osaka to reach her second consecutive major final.
"Managing my nerves and being able to put the past behind me after such a quick turnaround was the biggest mental challenge I faced," Anisimova, 24, shared with BBC Sport in March. She added that she found enjoyment in her play, feeling unburdened by stress, possibly due to strong support.
Overcoming Setbacks and Evolving Playstyle
Anisimova's return to Wimbledon follows a challenging year, which included a coaching change and a two-month hiatus from the clay season due due to a left wrist injury. "I'm just excited to play and be healthy again," she stated at Queen's, where she reached the quarter-finals.
Known for her powerful and aggressive game, Anisimova has recently enhanced her ability to construct winning points. British player Emma Raducanu, who has faced Anisimova four times recently, noted her friend's improved focus and competitiveness. "Everybody knew she was dangerous and could take the racquet out of anyone's hand, but I think her focus and competitiveness has made a big difference," Raducanu commented.
Her former coach, Rick Vleeshouwers, recalled the Wimbledon final as an anomaly. "I didn't see Amanda today," he told BBC Sport before their split, describing it as "the worst off day we have ever experienced." He reassured her that the disappointment would eventually fade.
From Prodigy to Professional
Anisimova's talent was evident from a young age, turning professional at 15. She won the 2017 US Open girls' title by defeating Coco Gauff and reached the French Open semi-finals in 2019 at 17, becoming the first woman born in the 21st century to achieve this feat after beating defending champion Simona Halep.
Her journey has been marked by personal adversity, including the loss of her father and coach, Konstantin, less than three months after her French Open success. "A lot of life experiences have made me grow up very quickly, especially it being such an independent sport," she explained. "You quickly learn a lot of things and how to handle a lot of stressful situations on your own."
Anisimova also highlighted a positive shift in the social environment on the professional tour, noting improved camaraderie among players. She credited fellow American Sloane Stephens for making her feel welcome early on and praised top players like Aryna Sabalenka for fostering a more inclusive atmosphere.
Prioritizing Well-being and Future Aspirations
In 2023, Anisimova took a break from tennis to prioritize her mental health, returning to the WTA Tour in January. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and varying her routine. "If I need a lighter day for my mental recovery then I'll take it, because for me it's just as important as my physical health," she stated.
During her break, she pursued a business and psychology degree and engaged in painting, selling some of her artwork for charity. While a career in medicine, specifically surgery, was once an ambition, Anisimova now acknowledges its unsuitability given the demands of professional tennis. Despite the challenges, she remains passionate about her current career.
Anisimova looks forward to Wimbledon, hoping to create new, more positive memories. "Wimbledon is Wimbledon. I'll always love coming back," she said. "I have great memories from it, hoping to maybe rewrite the story in a more positive way and hopefully go all the way at some point in my career."
Source: Anisimova plots Wimbledon sequel with happier ending