Amanda Anisimova’s journey in professional tennis is not just a story of talent, but a testament to resilience and determination. Despite facing multiple personal and professional setbacks, the 23-year-old American has continuously battled back to prove her mettle on the world stage. Her triumph at the China Open 2025 after consecutive Grand Slam final defeats serves as a vivid illustration of her unwavering spirit.
1. The Loss of Her Father (2019)
Amanda faced an unimaginable personal tragedy when her father, Konstantin Anisimov, passed away from a heart attack at the age of 52 on August 19, 2019, just a week before her 18th birthday. The loss devastated Amanda Anisimova and forced her to withdraw from the US Open that year. The young player’s world was shaken, yet she would eventually channel her grief into motivation to pursue her dreams in tennis.
2. Global Disruption: Covid-19 (2020)
Like many athletes worldwide, Amanda’s career faced disruption during the Covid-19 pandemic. The cancellation of tournaments and prolonged breaks from competitive play presented a challenge for her development and consistency. Maintaining focus and training during this period required significant mental strength.
3. Injuries Plague the Teen Years (2021)
In 2021, Anisimova endured multiple injuries that hindered her progress on the WTA Tour. Frequent withdrawals and limited match play created setbacks in ranking and confidence. Recovering physically while maintaining a competitive edge demanded patience and determination.
4. A Hiatus from the Sport (2023)
Amanda Anisimova briefly stepped away from professional tennis in 2023, a decision that reflected her need to regroup mentally and physically. This break led to her dropping outside the top 400 in world rankings, a humbling experience for a player who had once been considered a top-ten contender.
5. Return to Form: Qatar Open Victory (2025)
After rebuilding her form, Amanda marked her return to prominence by winning the Qatar Open in early 2025. This victory signaled the resurgence of her competitive spirit and set the stage for her breakthrough performances later in the season.
6. Back in the Top 10 (July 2025)
By July 2025, Anisimova had climbed back into the top 10, reclaiming her status among the elite in women’s tennis with a current ranking of number 4. This return to the upper echelons reflected her hard work, persistence, and ability to overcome past disappointments.
7. Heartbreak at Grand Slams
Despite her resurgence, Amanda Anisimova faced tough losses in Grand Slam finals, including Wimbledon and the US Open. While these defeats could have been demoralizing, she used them as learning experiences, demonstrating her mental toughness and refusal to be defined by setbacks.
8. Triumph at the China Open (2025)
Anisimova’s China Open victory in 2025 became the crowning achievement of her comeback story. After consecutive Grand Slam final defeats, her ability to maintain composure, adapt her game, and seize the title exemplified her resilience. This triumph not only added a WTA 1000 title to her resume but also inspired tennis fans worldwide with her relentless perseverance.
Amanda Anisimova’s journey is a compelling reminder that setbacks do not define one’s destiny. From personal loss and injuries to career slumps and tough defeats, she has consistently demonstrated that resilience, focus, and determination can lead to remarkable comebacks. Her China Open 2025 victory stands as a testament to her unwavering spirit and her place among the sport’s rising stars.