It’s official—Amanda Anisimova has made history! She battled incredibly through a tough three-set match against world number one Aryna Sabalenka to make her first Grand Slam final at Wimbledon. The 23-year-old American showcased her resilience and skill, winning the match 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 in nearly three hours of intense competition under challenging conditions.
With this victory, Anisimova took the lead in her head-to-head record against Sabalenka to 6-3. What stood out most in that match was her fighting spirit, as she fought through every point, showing downright ruthless shot-making. Anisimova’s success not only brings her career triumphs full-circle. It’s the kind of stuff that keeps American hopes alive for a third women’s Grand Slam champion this year.
Given that Anisimova took a mental health break earlier in 2023, the path she took to the final is especially impressive. It’s hard to question her commitment given her beautiful comeback at Wimbledon. This is her first big semifinal since she wowed the tennis world as a young starlet in her dream 2019 French Open campaign.
The final started in a dramatic fashion, as Anisimova won the first set when Sabalenka hit a double fault at the most inopportune time. As the match continued on, both players traded momentum back and forth, with Sabalenka coming back to win the second set. Anisimova took over the third set, reminding everyone of her big match credentials.
“This doesn’t feel real right now, honestly,” – Amanda Anisimova
After her win, an incredulous Anisimova discussed not quite being able to believe what she’d done and spoke about the match’s electric ambiance.
“To come out on top today and be in the final of Wimbledon is so incredibly special. The atmosphere was incredible. I know she’s the number one, but a lot of people were cheering for me. Huge thanks to everyone,” – Amanda Anisimova
Anisimova gave credit to Sabalenka for being a formidable opponent, adding that the match was very physical.
“Aryna is such a tough competitor, and I was absolutely dying out there. Yeah, I don’t know how I pulled it off. I mean, she’s such an incredible competitor, and she’s an inspiration to me and I’m sure so many other people,” – Amanda Anisimova
In the semifinals, Anisimova is set to meet the winner of Iga Swiatek and Belinda Bencic, a potential thrilling contest no matter the victor.
“It’s going to be an incredible match, and whoever comes out on top, it’s going to be a battle in the final,” – Amanda Anisimova
