Amanda Anisimova has been one of the most electrifying talents in tennis this year, capturing the attention of fans and fellow players alike. Among her most vocal admirers is John Isner, the former American No. 1 and a respected figure in the sport. In a recent podcast, Isner didn’t hesitate to shower praise on Anisimova, even suggesting that he sometimes regards her as the best player in the world. While this isn’t to say she’s currently the undisputed top player globally, it’s a remarkable endorsement that speaks volumes about her potential.

Anisimova’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric. At just 21 years old, she has already made deep runs at some of tennis’s most prestigious events, including reaching the final at Wimbledon. Though she fell short in that final, the way she bounced back showcased not only her talent but her mental resilience—a crucial ingredient for sustained success at the elite level.

Her victory at the Beijing Open was a statement of intent. It wasn’t just another title added to her growing résumé; it was a demonstration that she can convert her potential into results. Such performances have convinced observers like Isner that Anisimova could realistically challenge for the world No. 1 ranking within the next year. He believes that her blend of physicality, fierce groundstrokes, and improving court craft, paired with a steely mentality, make her a formidable competitor on tour.

Isner’s assessment is especially compelling given his veteran insight. As an American tennis icon who thrived on the ATP Tour, his perspective holds weight when it comes to evaluating upcoming stars. However, he also expressed optimism about American tennis more broadly, noting that the next breakout star who might climb to the pinnacle could be a surprise — and intriguingly, he doesn’t think it will be Coco Gauff. Gauff is unquestionably gifted and has already racked up major accomplishments at a young age, including multiple deep Grand Slam runs, but Isner’s endorsement remains firmly with Anisimova.

The story of American women in tennis is rich and storied. Historically, the United States has produced some of the greatest female players, many of whom have held the WTA No.1 ranking. Among these legends are Chris Evert, renowned for her consistency and mental toughness; Martina Navratilova, known for her versatility and longevity; and Serena Williams, whose dominance over two decades has arguably been unparalleled. Other Americans who reached the top include Lindsay Davenport, Jennifer Capriati, Tracy Austin, Monica Seles (who, though born in Yugoslavia, became a U.S. citizen), and Venus Williams. These players have collectively defined eras of tennis and inspired generations.

Against this illustrious backdrop, Anisimova is still in many ways an underdog. She hasn’t yet amassed the same level of titles or accolades as those icons, but that makes her journey all the more captivating. At an age when many players are still finding their footing, she is already making waves and demonstrating a maturity beyond her years.

Anisimova’s story adds another fascinating chapter to American tennis history. Born in the United States to Russian immigrant parents, she began playing tennis at a young age, turning pro as a teenager. While she showed promise early on, it wasn’t until recent years that her game truly blossomed. Her aggressive baseline style combined with strong defense and a competitive spirit make her a compelling player to watch.

It’s worth noting that the path to the top in women’s tennis is seldom linear; many predecessors experienced ups and downs before cementing their legacies. Serena Williams, for instance, faced injuries and personal challenges but consistently returned to dominate. Jennifer Capriati overcame early career struggles to win multiple Grand Slam titles. In this context, Anisimova’s ability to learn from setbacks—including her tough loss at Wimbledon—bodes well for her future prospects.

Physically, the demands of today’s game on women’s tennis players are enormous. The sport has evolved to favor those who possess exceptional athleticism alongside technical prowess. Anisimova’s endurance, speed, and power give her an edge that matches up well against the current generation of top players, blending old-school grit with modern dynamism.

Beyond talent and fitness, the mental aspect of the game is often the most defining factor. The pressure to perform, expectations of fans and media, and the grind of the tour can take their toll. Anisimova’s willingness to confront these challenges openly and maturely sets her apart, as does her openness to learning and growth.

Looking ahead, the tennis world will watch with anticipation. Will Amanda Anisimova seize the opportunity to transform from rising star into a dominant force at the summit of the sport? If John Isner’s glowing appraisal is any indication, the next chapter of American tennis might be written by this young athlete.

History has shown that tennis greatness often arrives when talent meets perseverance and timing. Anisimova has all those ingredients. Whether she becomes the next American world No.1 or carves out her own unique legacy, her journey promises to be one of the most exciting stories in the sport today.

As Isner succinctly put it during his podcast: sometimes when he watches her play, he genuinely feels she is the best player on the planet. That palpable sense of admiration may just be the herald of an extraordinary career to come. For fans of tennis, the unfolding saga of Amanda Anisimova is one to savor.