Amanda Anisimova was seen drinking an amber-coloured liquid from a plastic cup during her Cincinnati Open match against Alexandra Eala, leading commentators and fans to wonder if she was having a beer mid-match. The American went on to win the match despite losing the first set, advancing to the third round where she will face Linda Noskova.
Commentators puzzled by the drink
During the match, Tennis Channel commentators were left confused by the beverage. One asked: “What is that?” while another speculated: “Could it be apple cider?” The main commentator added: “I would never suggest a player was drinking a beer in the middle of a match, but… that’s certainly what it looked like.”
It was just Red Bull
The confusion was cleared when television cameras showed an empty can of Red Bull beside Anisimova’s seating area, confirming the drink was a caffeinated energy drink, not beer.
Anisimova's post-match reaction
Speaking after the match, the 24-year-old said: “I know Alex is such a great player and such a fighter. I knew it was gonna be a really tough match. There was quite a bit of support for me tonight so I really appreciate that, because I know how loved Alex is… And for good reason. But I really appreciated it because I felt like I needed a pick-me-up in this match because it’s past my bed time.”
She added: “I’m really proud of his performance, for being able to find a way and push myself there in the middle of the match. I’m really happy with the way I was able to find my tennis and start fighting. Another great player, just off of a Grand Slam title, so she’s playing some great tennis, but I’m just gonna try and enjoy my win tonight.”
