Amanda Anisimova thought her level against Aryna Sabalenka was strong for the most part but also admitted that there were moments when her game dropped and the world No. 1 capitalized on it.
The American came out swinging the ball in her WTA Finals semifinal clash but missed out on five early break points before losing her serve twice and finding herself down by a break.
After dropping the opener, Anisimova started realizing her chances and went 4-0 up in the second set before ultimately forcing a third set.
The world No. 4 continued with her fine play at the start of the decider as she led 3-2 and had a deuce on Sabalenka's serve in the sixth game. But then, the American's game suddenly shut down as the Belarusian won the sixth, as well as the next three games, to complete a 6-3 3-6 6-3 win.
ADVERTISEMENT
Anisimova: I played well overall but it was a roller coaster in certain moments
I think I played good tennis at points in the match. And at some points there was a drop. It was kind of like a roller coaster. There are things I can learn from this match but its too soon to process it," the 24-year-old said following her semifinal exit in Riyadh.
For Anisimova, the Sabalenka loss also marked the end of her breakout 2025 season, during which she became a WTA 1000 champion - made two Grand Slam finals - and achieved a career-high ranking of No. 4 in the world. She earned praise from none other than the top-ranked player in the game.
I told Amanda she should be proud of her season. She played incredible tennis the whole season and its just the beginning. I know right now shes probably disappointed, but many more things are coming her way for sure," Sabalenka said of Anisimova.
ADVERTISEMENT
Anisimova established herself as one of the best players in the game and she will be regarded as a favorite for the biggest titles in 2025.
