Quick Read
- Marta Kostyuk defeated world No. 3 Amanda Anisimova in straight sets (6-4, 6-3) at the 2026 Brisbane International.
- Kostyuk’s victory came after intense preparation, motivated by a recent practice session where Anisimova “destroyed” her.
- The Ukrainian praised Anisimova’s powerful game, highlighting her own tactical success in creating points against a “hard hitter.”
- This marked Kostyuk’s first time playing on Brisbane’s center court, a moment she described as “incredible” due to the full stadium.
The 2026 tennis season has barely begun, yet it’s already serving up compelling narratives. One of the most striking early storylines comes from the Brisbane International, where Ukrainian talent Marta Kostyuk delivered a resounding message to the WTA Tour. In a stunning display of skill and determination, Kostyuk, currently ranked 26th in the world, dispatched the formidable world No. 3, Amanda Anisimova, in straight sets, 6-4, 6-3, propelling herself into the tournament’s quarterfinals.
This wasn’t just another win for Kostyuk; it was a statement. Anisimova, the tournament’s second seed, entered 2026 on the back of an extraordinary 2025 season, which saw her clinch two coveted WTA 1000 titles and reach the finals of two Grand Slams – Wimbledon and the US Open. Her career-high ranking of third in the world underscored her dominant form. To overcome such a high-caliber opponent, especially one who had enjoyed such a stellar preceding year, speaks volumes about Kostyuk’s readiness and ambition for the new season.
A Tactical Masterclass Forged in Practice
The victory felt particularly sweet, and perhaps a little surprising, even for Kostyuk herself, given their recent history. During her on-court interview after the match, the Ukrainian revealed a telling anecdote. “It sounds like a new year!” she exclaimed with a smile. “I practiced with Amanda like a week ago and she absolutely destroyed me in practice so I was coming into this match super ready.” This candid admission offers a glimpse into the psychological preparation that often underpins top-level tennis. That prior defeat, rather than dampening her spirits, ignited a fierce resolve, transforming a practice setback into a catalyst for a major upset.
Kostyuk elaborated on her approach, emphasizing the diligent work behind the scenes. “I think I played really, really good, and you know, we did an amazing preparation with my team,” she noted. “And I feel, you know, everything that we’ve done is kicking in and it’s just the first week of the year so, you know, always happy to get the results so quick.” This highlights the meticulous planning and execution involved, suggesting that her performance wasn’t a fluke but the culmination of focused training and strategic development.
Navigating Anisimova’s Power: A Test of Skill and Poise
Facing a player of Anisimova’s caliber requires more than just physical prowess; it demands a sharp tactical mind. Kostyuk readily acknowledged her opponent’s formidable game. “Amanda is such a hard hitter,” she stated, painting a clear picture of the challenge she faced. “It’s really difficult to create something in the point, but very happy I managed to do that today, and yeah, it was a good match.”
Indeed, the match against Anisimova wasn’t Kostyuk’s only moment of brilliance in Brisbane. In the second round, she showcased her exceptional athleticism and touch against Yulia Putintseva. During one memorable rally, captured as a “hot shot” by WTA, Kostyuk proved equal to Putintseva’s cunning drop shot-lob-drop shot combination. She scrambled relentlessly, covering the length of the court with incredible speed, before finishing the point with a delicate touch of her own. This demonstrates her all-around game and her ability to adapt to different styles, a crucial asset for any player aiming for the top.
Against Anisimova, the strategy was evidently about disruption and precision. To consistently “create something in the point” against a player who dictates with raw power requires anticipation, clever court positioning, and the ability to absorb pace before redirecting it effectively. It suggests Kostyuk was not merely reacting but actively constructing points, forcing Anisimova out of her comfort zone. This tactical maturity, combined with her physical capabilities, proved to be the winning formula.
The Joy of the Center Court Spotlight
Beyond the tactical nuances and the thrill of victory, there was a deeply personal element to Kostyuk’s success in Brisbane. This tournament marked a significant milestone: her first time playing on the prestigious center court. For any professional athlete, stepping onto such a stage is a moment of profound significance, and Kostyuk was clearly moved by the experience.
“I’m very happy to start like this, and I’m so happy because it’s my first time playing on centre court here,” she shared. “I played you many years, but I never got a chance to play here, but thank you so much.” The gratitude in her voice was palpable, a genuine appreciation for the opportunity. The energy of the crowd further amplified the moment. “I was incredibly happy to come out on court and see a full stadium, it’s an incredible feeling always as a tennis player because this is what we’re playing for,” she added. This connection with the fans, the shared excitement of a live match, is often the very essence of why athletes dedicate their lives to their sport. For Kostyuk, it was a moment where hard work, ambition, and passion converged under the bright lights of a packed arena.
This early-season triumph is particularly meaningful for Kostyuk, especially given her reflection on the previous year. “I didn’t have the best season last year,” she admitted, providing context to her current joy. Starting 2026 with such a significant win, against a top-tier opponent and on a grand stage, not only boosts her confidence but also sets a powerful precedent for the months ahead. As the 16th seed at the Brisbane International, her deep run here could very well be the springboard she needs to elevate her game and climb higher in the world rankings.
Marta Kostyuk’s decisive victory over world No. 3 Amanda Anisimova at the Brisbane International is far more than just an early-season upset; it’s a potent declaration of intent. By showcasing both exceptional athleticism and astute tactical play, underscored by rigorous preparation and a newfound confidence, Kostyuk has positioned herself as a player to watch closely in 2026. This win, particularly after a self-professed challenging 2025, serves as a powerful testament to her resilience and potential, signaling a possible breakthrough year on the WTA Tour.