In a powerful and emotional return to professional tennis, Amanda Anisimova has marked her comeback with a decisive victory at the US Open, her first Grand Slam appearance since taking an indefinite break from the sport to prioritise her mental health.
The 22-year-old American star, once ranked a career-high of No. 21 globally, displayed formidable strength on the court, securing a straight-sets win (7-5, 6-2) against Russian opponent Ekaterina Makarova. This triumphant return comes just months after she bravely stepped away from the game, citing burnout and the immense pressures of the tour.
A Courageous Decision for Wellbeing
Anisimova's hiatus began in May, following a first-round exit at the Madrid Open. The young athlete made the courageous decision to pause her flourishing career, a move that resonated across the sporting world. She has been openly praised for prioritising her mental wellbeing, helping to destigmatise the conversation around mental health in elite athletics.
Overcoming Adversity On and Off the Court
The Florida-based player's career has been a testament to resilience. She has navigated profound personal tragedy alongside the typical pressures of professional sport. Her powerful baseline game and fighting spirit were on full display in New York, proving that her time away has done little to diminish her competitive edge.
This victory sets up an intriguing second-round clash for Anisimova, who will face the No. 13 seed, ensuring a tough but exciting challenge ahead in the tournament.
A New Chapter Begins
Anisimova's successful return sends a strong message about the importance of athlete welfare. Her performance demonstrates that taking necessary time for mental recovery can lead to a stronger, more focused comeback. The tennis world watches with support as she writes the next chapter of her promising career, one powerful forehand at a time.
