Quick Read
- Amanda Anisimova defeated Janice Tjen 6-1, 6-3 to reach the Dubai quarterfinals.
- The 24-year-old World No. 3 returned strong after retiring from the Qatar Open last week due to illness.
- Anisimova was a two-time Grand Slam runner-up in 2025 (Wimbledon, US Open).
- She stated her current focus is on consistency and “tying all things together” rather than solely Grand Slam titles.
- Anisimova will face Mirra Andreeva or Jaqueline Cristian in the next round.
DUBAI (Azat TV) – American tennis star Amanda Anisimova secured a decisive victory at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships on Wednesday, advancing to the quarterfinals with a dominant performance over wild card Janice Tjen. This robust return to form for the 24-year-old World No. 3 signals her resilience after a recent health setback, coming at a time when discussions about player well-being and career longevity are increasingly prominent within professional tennis, particularly following a recent retirement on the WTA tour at the young age of 25.
Anisimova, the tournament’s No. 2 seed, defeated Tjen with a commanding 6-1, 6-3 scoreline in just 70 minutes. This marked her successful opening to the Dubai tournament, having received a first-round bye and a second-round walkover due to Barbora Krejcikova’s withdrawal. The win is particularly significant as it follows her forced retirement from the Qatar Open just last week against Karolina Pliskova due to illness, where she was the defending champion.
Anisimova’s Resurgent Form in Dubai
The match against Janice Tjen was the first encounter between the two players. Anisimova quickly established her dominance, taking the first set 6-1. While Tjen managed an early break in the second set to lead 2-0, Anisimova swiftly extinguished the challenge, winning six of the next seven games to close out the match. This performance showcased the American’s powerful game and mental fortitude, crucial attributes as she aims for her first semifinal appearance of the season.
Her strong showing in Dubai comes after a quarterfinal exit at the Australian Open earlier this year. The 2025 season was a breakout year for Anisimova, who reached two Grand Slam finals, finishing as runner-up at Wimbledon and the US Open, where she lost to Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka, respectively. Many observers had predicted that 2026 would see her claim a maiden Grand Slam title.
Focus Beyond Grand Slam Titles
Despite her impressive Grand Slam record from the previous year, Amanda Anisimova has articulated a shift in her immediate focus. Speaking to Al Ersal Pod ahead of the Dubai tournament, she addressed her Grand Slam ambitions, stating, “I’d say it’s obviously a process. You have to really try and tie in all the things together, and I feel like I’m really trying to figure out everything I need to do to give myself the best possible chance.” This perspective suggests a commitment to holistic development and consistency over a singular pursuit of major titles at this stage of her career.
Anisimova expressed relief and happiness to be able to move on quickly from the disappointment of her retirement in Doha. “That’s the hope,” she remarked when asked about winning the Dubai title. “That’s the thing about tennis is that we get so many opportunities and that’s what makes it so great. So, I’m hoping for the best.” Her comments highlight the demanding but also rewarding nature of the WTA tour, offering frequent chances for redemption and success.
What’s Next for Amanda Anisimova
With her victory, Anisimova now advances to the quarterfinals, where she is set to face either Mirra Andreeva, the defending champion, or Jaqueline Cristian. Her journey in Dubai underscores the relentless schedule and competitive intensity faced by elite tennis players. At 24 years old, Anisimova is navigating the peak of her physical and mental demands, balancing high expectations with the need for sustained well-being.
Anisimova’s current trajectory, marked by a swift return to winning form after illness and a stated focus on foundational development, reflects a mature approach to managing the pressures of elite sport. This strategic emphasis on overall readiness, rather than solely outcome-based goals, is a critical adaptation for young athletes in a demanding sport like tennis, particularly in an era where the discussion around player longevity and mental and physical health is gaining significant traction.