Amanda Anisimova didn't only have to overcome some strong competition in Beijing, but she also had to overcome tooth extraction and foot pain.
Over 10 days in Beijing, the American - who was seeded at No. 3 - won a total of six matches and lifted her second WTA 1000 title after beating Linda Noskova 6-0 2-6 6-2 in the final. En route to making it all the way at the China Open for the first time in her career, the 24-year-old also had wins over Karolina Muchova and Jasmine Paolini, as well as an absolutely impressive 6-1 6-2 semifinal victory over Coco Gauff.
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Before flying to China, Anisimova had issues with one of her teeth and she had it extracted. Then, after hitting the court in Beijing, the American tennis star started feeling pain and discomfort in her feet. Still, she refused to quit and received the ultimate reward for it.
Anisimova: I was just hurting all day when I was walking...
I think it was obvious in one of the matches where I was in pain. I was just hurting all day when I was walking. Those were the hardest moments because youre trying to have a conversation with yourself and figure out whats the best decision to make," the world No. 4 told the WTA website.
Anisimova also revealed that she tried to "play mental games" during the times when she felt, and tried to trick her brain into feeling like she was fine.
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We as athletes dont feel great day in, day out. I think thats just part of the learning process. With each match, Ive been surprising myself and trying to learn how to work with physical pain, pushing myself in tough matches," the 24-year-old admitted.
Meanwhile, Anisimova has no interest in resting as she is already in Wuhan, where she is due to meet Jessica Bouzas Maneiro after a first-round bye.
