Amanda Anisimova, seeded 13th from the United States, secured a notable win over Linda Noskova in the Round of 16, earning her place in the Wimbledon quarterfinals this year. This achievement marks a significant milestone in her career, ensuring she will break into the top 10 in the world rankings after the tournament concludes.
Early Family Influences and Tennis Beginnings
Anisimova grew up inspired by her older sister, Maria, who pursued tennis from a young age and played at the University of Pennsylvania between 2006 and 2009. Maria was part of the university’s first doubles team to reach the college championships, although her tennis career did not reach the heights she had hoped for. Despite this, Maria’s commitment to the sport played a vital role in motivating Amanda during her early development.
Their parents relocated from Russia to Florida in 1998 with the goal of supporting Maria’s tennis ambitions. Amanda, born after their move, later became the family’s standout athlete by achieving success at the professional level.
Career Highlights and Historic Achievements
Anisimova entered the WTA Tour in 2016 and quickly made a name for herself by winning the junior US Open title in 2017, defeating Coco Gauff in the final. Gauff subsequently became the US Open champion in 2023. Amanda also made history as the first woman born in the 21st century to reach the semifinals and quarterfinals of a Grand Slam tournament, with her remarkable performance at the 2019 French Open where she advanced to the last four.
Mental Health Advocacy and Artistic Ventures
Beyond her tennis career, Anisimova has been open about the importance of mental health, taking a break in 2023 to prevent burnout. During this period, she explored painting as a new form of expression and participated in an initiative called Art for Hope. Several of her artworks were exhibited in a New York gallery, reflecting the creative path she pursued while away from the court.
Future Aspirations Beyond Tennis
Should she have pursued a different career, Anisimova has revealed that she would have liked to become a surgeon. In an interview with the New York Times, she expressed:
“If I didn’t play tennis, I’d want to be a surgeon. Actually what I want to do is go to online college while I’m in my pro career and then go to med school after I finish.” —Amanda Anisimova
Her dedication to tennis remains strong, benefiting the sport as she continues to rise among the top players in the United States and worldwide.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why did Amanda Anisimova take a break?
A. When she was deeply depressed and overwhelmed by the tennis circuit, the 23-year-old decided to take a full break from the sport two years ago.