Amanda Anisimova, the American tennis player, is emerging as a formidable contender heading into 2026, following a remarkable resurgence in her career. After a challenging period, Anisimova’s performance in the latter half of 2025 has captured attention, showcasing her potential to dominate the sport once again.
Early Promise and Setbacks
Anisimova first gained recognition in 2019 when she advanced to the fourth round of the French Open, where she faced off against Petra Kvitova, who eventually reached the final. That year marked a significant milestone for Anisimova as she secured her first professional title on clay, her preferred surface. She further solidified her rising star status by reaching the semifinals at the French Open, coming close to victory before succumbing to Ash Barty‘s strategic gameplay.
At just 17 years old, Anisimova seemed destined for greatness. However, her journey took a tragic turn when she withdrew from the US Open following the untimely death of her father. This incident profoundly affected her performance, and she struggled to regain her previous form over the following years.
A Path to Recovery
After experiencing inconsistent results, Anisimova made the decision to take a break from competitive tennis in the latter half of 2023, prioritizing her mental health. This time away from the sport proved beneficial as she returned revitalized and focused. Her re-entry into the WTA Tour in 2025 marked the beginning of a new chapter.
During this resurgence, Anisimova achieved significant milestones, including a standout performance at Wimbledon, where she reached the final. Earlier in the year, she claimed the WTA 1000 title in Doha, further establishing her competitive edge. Notably, Anisimova defeated top players, including Aryna Sabalenka, showcasing her ability to compete at the highest level.
Despite facing Iga Swiatek in the Wimbledon final, where she appeared overwhelmed, Anisimova demonstrated resilience and determination. She later avenged this loss at the US Open, where she once again faced Sabalenka, ultimately finishing as the runner-up.
As Anisimova continues to refine her game, her powerful and precise shots are becoming a hallmark of her style. With her confidence soaring and consistency improving, she is on track to challenge her competitors in 2026. If her progress continues at this rate, she may well become one of the most formidable players on the Tour.
With a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to her craft, Amanda Anisimova is poised to leave a lasting impression on the tennis world. As she prepares for the upcoming season, fans and analysts alike are excited to see how her journey unfolds in the year ahead.
