Amanda Anisimova experienced a challenging moment in her tennis career during the Wimbledon final on July 14, 2023. The 23-year-old American faced off against Iga Świątek, who dominated the match, winning with a score of 6-0, 6-0. This defeat, occurring in just 57 minutes, marked only the second time in history that a Wimbledon singles final concluded with such a scoreline, with the last occurrence dating back to 1911.
Anisimova, who entered the match as the 13th seed, began her Wimbledon journey with an impressive performance, including a stunning semifinal victory over world number one Aryna Sabalenka. However, in the final, she struggled to find her rhythm on a grand stage, facing relentless pressure from Świątek.
Reflecting on the Experience
Following the match, Anisimova spoke candidly about the emotional toll of the defeat. During the customary post-match interview on Centre Court, she fought back tears while addressing the crowd and former British player Annabel Croft. “It was tough to digest,” Anisimova admitted. “It’s not how I would have wanted my first grand slam final to go.” She expressed feelings of shock and disappointment, stating, “It’s not an easy thing to go through, losing zero and zero.”
The historical significance of the match is notable. The only other instance of a Wimbledon final concluding with a double bagel was over a century ago, and only once before had a major final ended in such a way, when Steffi Graf overwhelmed Natasha Zvereva at the 1988 French Open in just 34 minutes.
Finding Positivity in Adversity
Despite the disappointment, Anisimova remained focused on the lessons learned throughout the tournament. Reflecting on her journey, she remarked, “What I’ve learned is you’re never going to be perfect, and every match is different.” Her determination and fighting spirit played a significant role in her success leading up to the final, as she faced various challenges and adapted her game.
Anisimova emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive mindset during difficult moments, stating, “I think me just staying focused and fighting my way through certain moments… was the most important thing.” This resilience was evident in her path to the final, where she demonstrated her capability to compete at the highest level.
As Anisimova processes this experience, she looks forward to future opportunities. The Wimbledon final, while a tough setback, has provided her with invaluable insights and motivation to continue her pursuit of success in the sport she loves. With her talent and determination, she remains a player to watch in the coming seasons.
