Amanda Anisimova focused on Tennis in Melbourne

Amanda Anisimova has made it clear that her attention remains only on tennis as she continues her run in Melbourne with a 6-1, 6-4 win over Katerina Siniakova.

“I’m super happy with this win,” Anisimova said. “It was a really tough match against a tough opponent, so I’m just really happy to be through and I really enjoyed it out there.”

The 24-year-old has now reached consecutive Grand Slam finals in her last two major appearances and believes competitive matches bring out her best tennis.

“I feel like I’ve always been a player who likes a challenge,” she said. “When things get a bit rocky and it’s very competitive out there, I think I thrive on that. That’s what I love about the sport—those really tense moments.”

Anisimova said winning difficult matches has helped her confidence.

“I’ve been able to come through and get to the finish line at Grand Slams, so that definitely helps with my confidence,” she said. “But in those moments, I’m just thinking about how to battle through and what I can do better.”

She also spoke about learning how to manage emotions with her team during tense matches.

“I feel that they’re in a tricky position sometimes,” Anisimova said. “Most of the time we say things we don’t mean because we’re so emotional on the court. If we ever do say something, I’m sure most of us apologize after the match—I’ve definitely done that before.”

Next up is a third-round clash against Peyton Stearns, with both players yet to drop a set.

“She’s a great player and plays very physical tennis,” Anisimova said. “I’m really looking forward to playing against her. I’m sure it’s going to be a very tough match.”

Away from the court, Anisimova said she tries to keep things light with music, shows, and time with her team.

“I make funny videos with my team, which helps get my mind off things,” she said. “Anything outside of tennis that helps take our minds off things is really nice.”

When asked about political issues and speculation around nationality, Anisimova shut it down quickly.

“I don’t think that’s relevant,” she said. “I’m not planning to switch my nationality or represent a different country. I was born there, so it’s not something that comes to my mind.”