Anisimova vs. Sabalenka: Clash of Giants in the Wimbledon Semifinals
WIMBLEDON, England – Amanda Anisimova collapsed on the grass, showing the intensity of the moment after securing her place in the Wimbledon semi-finals. After six years and a break dedicated to her mental health, the American tennis player is shining again on the most prestigious stage in tennis. Her victory over Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova by 6-1 and 7-6 (9) propels her to an epic showdown. Anisimova’s joy was evident. “I feel like everything is coming together for me, and each tournament gives me more confidence,” declared the number 13 in the ranking. “I enjoy every moment.”
Known Rivals
Although Sabalenka has three Grand Slam titles and has been number one in the world, it is Anisimova who leads the head-to-head record. In eight matches, Anisimova has won five times, including their first two meetings in major tournaments. Since the beginning of 2024, Sabalenka has won two of her three matches against Anisimova, the most recent at the French Open. Three of their encounters were decided in the final set. Both players anticipate a “tough” match.Anisimova, for her part, is enthusiastic about the opportunity to compete on such an important stage. “I know she will play incredible tennis. There is no one better to play against. It will be something very special,” she affirmed.Sabalenka predicts “very aggressive tennis” and describes her previous matches as “battles”.
Sabalenka
The Last Encounter
In the French Open, Sabalenka started as the favorite, but Anisimova demonstrated her quality on clay. Sabalenka won the first set, but Anisimova responded aggressively, forcing the score. Sabalenka, however, secured the first set thanks to her powerful serve. The match ended with a victory for Sabalenka. The grass surface could change the landscape. “I think this surface suits her game very well,” Sabalenka commented. “She serves well and hits hard and clean.”Sabalenka in search of her fourth Grand Slam title
Sabalenka has been one of the most consistent players in recent seasons. In addition to her record in the Grand Slams, her dominance in the world ranking and her seven titles since 2024, she has reached the final in the last three major tournaments. Wimbledon is the only Grand Slam where Sabalenka has not yet reached the final, which adds a special significance to her participation.Anisimova’s Resurgence
Anisimova’s career has been marked by ups and downs. After a successful junior career, she won her first WTA title and reached the semi-finals of Roland Garros in 2019. In 2023, she announced an indefinite break due to mental health issues. After some time away, Anisimova returned, reaching the fourth round of the Australian Open. Her ranking forced her to go through the qualifying rounds at Wimbledon, where she failed to advance. However, this season she has regained her best form, winning the title at the Qatar Open and reaching the final at Queen’s Club. Anisimova describes her comeback as a “roller coaster”, but acknowledges the positive impact of her break. “I feel like that break helped me a lot,” Anisimova said. “I had my ups and downs coming back, but I’ve found my game and my confidence.” After her victory in the quarterfinals, Anisimova will enter the top 10 next week. If she defeats Sabalenka and reaches the final, she will rise to number 7. If she wins the title, she could reach number 5.
