Amanda Anisimova Wimbledon Coach Rick Vleeshouwers has played a pivotal role in the American player’s remarkable ascent at Wimbledon 2025. After overcoming personal tragedy and professional setbacks, Anisimova’s partnership with Vleeshouwers has propelled her to reach the semifinals of this prestigious tournament, marking a significant comeback in her career.
At 23 years old, Anisimova’s tennis journey had its share of early promise and challenges. Rising as a teenage prodigy, she made a breakthrough by reaching the semifinal of a Grand Slam at the French Open in 2019 when she was only 17. However, the death of her father in the same year and related burnout led to a temporary withdrawal from competition in 2023. Her return to the tour last year, under the guidance of Rick Vleeshouwers from the Netherlands, marks a new chapter, characterized by renewed focus and strong results, including her first WTA 1000 title at the Qatar Open in early 2025.
Rick Vleeshouwers’ Coaching Experience and Approach
Rick Vleeshouwers is no stranger to coaching at the highest levels of tennis, having previously worked with players like Elise Mertens and Yanina Wickmayer. His background includes time at the Kim Clijsters Academy and current involvement with the Bree Tennis Academy, though his primary dedication remains with Anisimova’s development. This relationship is marked by a precise and thoughtful coaching style designed to maximize Anisimova’s potential on big stages.
Before key matches, including the crucial semifinal against World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka at Wimbledon, Vleeshouwers emphasizes meticulous analysis. A habit he maintains, inspired by his time coaching Mertens, involves reviewing the entire match footage on the same day it was played to hold a clear and accurate perspective while still immersed in the match environment.
“The first thing I always do is watch the whole match back at the end of the day it was played on. She (Mertens) asked me to watch it back as soon as possible because then you’re still in the game. It really helps me form a funded opinion,” Vleeshouwers said.
This immediate post-match review enables him to assess whether his tactical advice was effective or if adjustments are needed going forward. For example, he confirmed the success of his guidance during Anisimova’s fourth-round win against Noskova by observing key moments in the replay.
“When I was watching live, in my opinion those things paid off – and when I watched it back, it was clear. It means I am confident in the message I set out to her afterwards. If I didn’t prepare this well, it’s on me. I need to know I put enough time in,” Vleeshouwers said.
A Direct and Clear Coaching Style Tailored to Anisimova’s Strengths
Vleeshouwers prefers a coaching style that is straightforward and concise. Rather than overwhelming Anisimova with excessive information, he filters his research about her opponents into actionable insights designed to complement her existing skills and instincts. This succinct approach aligns with his confidence in Anisimova’s ability to make smart decisions during play, requiring only targeted reminders and encouragement to trust her game.
“I’ll filter all my research about her next opponent into a compact message – you’ve been playing great, here are some key points for the next one which I think can give you value. She knows how to play, but you need courage to execute the plan. So keep playing on your own terms, your own game, and stick to that. It should hopefully bring an advantage in the match itself,” Vleeshouwers said.
This philosophy has proven effective as Anisimova moves deeper into Wimbledon 2025. The upcoming semifinal against Sabalenka on Thursday, July 10, represents a defining moment, with a chance for Anisimova to reach her first Grand Slam final—an achievement that would stand out as a major milestone in both her and Vleeshouwers’ careers.
The Impact of Vleeshouwers on Anisimova’s Career Revival
The partnership between Amanda Anisimova and Rick Vleeshouwers exemplifies how the right mentor-athlete relationship can rejuvenate an athlete’s trajectory. After years of emotional hardship and professional challenges, their collaboration has restored Anisimova’s confidence and sharpened her competitive edge. Their shared commitment is evident in the American’s recent tournament successes and her steady rise in the rankings.
As Anisimova faces off against the world number one, Aryna Sabalenka, the effect of Vleeshouwers’ coaching decisions will be under the spotlight. Should Anisimova prevail, it will mark the highlight of her career to date and confirm Vleeshouwers as a coach capable of guiding top talent through high-pressure situations on tennis’s grandest stages.