Amanda Anisimova’s 2025 campaign has captivated tennis enthusiasts worldwide, marking a remarkable chapter in the young American’s career. Emerging from a challenging period marked by a mental health hiatus, Anisimova has transformed herself into one of the most formidable forces on the WTA Tour. Her inspiring journey underscores not only remarkable athletic development but also the growing awareness of mental well-being in professional sports.

In 2024, Anisimova took an eight-month break from competitive tennis to focus on her mental health—a decision increasingly recognized and respected among athletes across disciplines. When she returned, ranked outside the top 400, many speculated whether she could reignite the promise she showed in her teenage years. However, by the end of that comeback year, Anisimova was back inside the top 40, signaling her resilience and potential to return stronger than before.

What makes her 2025 season stand out is the tremendous leap in performance and consistency. From climbing to a career-high No. 4 in the world rankings, Anisimova captured two prestigious WTA 1000 titles at the Qatar Open and China Open—events that attract the elite of women’s tennis and often serve as the proving ground for future Grand Slam champions. Even more compelling was her breakthrough at two of the sport’s most iconic stages: she reached the finals at both Wimbledon and the US Open, a feat few players achieve within the same season, especially at such a young age.

Comparing statistical output highlights the extent of her transformation. In 2024, her best Grand Slam result was the fourth round at the Australian Open, and she struggled against top 10 competitors, winning just 16.7% of those matches. In a drastic turnaround, the 2025 campaign saw her boast a 72.7% winning record against top 10 players—an indicator of both technical improvement and tactical acumen. Her improved serve, sharper baseline game, and refined shot selection propelled her into a new echelon of competition.

Behind these numbers lies a story of psychological evolution. Experts, including tennis analyst Rachel Pratt, emphasize the mental fortitude Anisimova has cultivated. Early in her career, Anisimova’s immense talent was occasionally undermined by confidence issues and mental pressure, especially given the weight of expectations after her breakthrough semifinal run at the 2019 French Open at age 17. However, by prioritizing mental health and working with sports psychologists, she has harnessed her inner strength, allowing her to remain calm and composed in high-stakes moments. Pratt notes, “Amanda possesses the physical tools, but her newfound mental clarity is what truly differentiates her now.”

This embrace of mental health management reflects a broader shift in tennis culture. In recent years, athletes like Naomi Osaka and Serena Williams have brought these conversations into the spotlight, challenging the narrative that toughness means ignoring emotional struggles. Anisimova’s openness about her journey resonates, inspiring not only fans but also fellow competitors.

Her style of play has matured accordingly. Known for her aggressive baseline game, combining powerful groundstrokes with nimble footwork, she has improved her serve and court positioning to become more versatile. At Wimbledon 2025, she demonstrated mental resilience by defeating several top-seeded players en route to the final, showcasing both her physical skills and strategic mindset. Similarly, her US Open run was marked by composure during tense moments, including a thrilling semifinal where she saved multiple match points.

Anisimova’s rapid rise also revives memories of other young American tennis stars who made a significant impact early on, such as Jennifer Capriati and Monica Seles. While Anisimova’s trajectory was temporarily derailed by personal challenges, her resurgence echoes the tenacity and talent seen in those players who overcame adversity to shine internationally.

Looking ahead, Amanda Anisimova is poised to continue her ascent. Having secured a spot at the prestigious WTA Finals—the season-ending tournament for the top-ranked players—she is expected to solidify a top-five year-end ranking. Her blend of youth, power, and mental resilience makes her a favorite for future Grand Slam titles. If 2025 is any indication, the tennis world is witnessing the arrival of not just a star, but a potential legend in the making, balancing the pressures of professional sport with personal growth more gracefully than many before her.

Amanda Anisimova’s story serves as a testament to the evolving nature of tennis — where raw talent must be matched by mental endurance—and where seeking help is recognized as part of the journey to greatness. For a player who once seemed to struggle under the bright lights, the future now shines brilliantly, filled with promise and possibility.