Amanda Anisimova, a rising star in the world of tennis, is gearing up for the US Open, but her journey hasn't been without its challenges. After a remarkable 2025 season, where she reached two Grand Slam finals and claimed two WTA 1000 titles, Anisimova has faced a slump in 2026, slipping from third to 10th in the WTA rankings. The 24-year-old American is now on a mission to rediscover her passion for the sport.
In a candid interview after her victory at the Canadian Open, Anisimova revealed a pressing concern: the weight of points she must defend during the North American hard court swing. With 1300 WTA points on the line at the US Open, where she reached the final last year, Anisimova acknowledged the pressure, stating, 'I feel like I’m past that point with like the points and everything.'
Her words hint at a deeper struggle. Anisimova confessed to a lack of enjoyment in her tennis, a stark contrast to her previous heroics. 'I’m just trying to find my game, and, yeah, find myself on the court. I feel like it’s been a really long year,' she said. This sentiment underscores the challenge she faces in reconnecting with her winning form.
The solution, according to Anisimova, lies in her renewed partnership with former coach Hendrik Vleeshouwers. Their reunion, she believes, has brought back the energy and connection they shared last year. 'I feel like we’ve had a really fun week here so far and just looking forward to hopefully doing well for the rest of the year,' she said. This strategic move, she hopes, will help her reclaim her place among the top players.
Anisimova's relationship with Vleeshouwers is a fascinating study in growth and self-awareness. She acknowledges that their closeness led to a spiral of infectious behavior, a realization that prompted their initial split. The break, however, proved beneficial, allowing them to reassess and strengthen their bond. 'We talked about that this week. How we both agree that we’ve learned a lot and, I don’t know, we just seem like both more calm, and that we’ve learned a lot from the experiences last year,' she explained.
As Anisimova navigates the challenges of the US Open, her journey serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between passion and performance. Her story is a testament to the power of self-reflection and the importance of finding joy in the pursuit of excellence. Will she reclaim her place at the top? Only time will tell, but her journey is undoubtedly one to watch.
