In a thrilling three-set battle, Amanda Anisimova defied the odds to topple world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka and secure her place in the Wimbledon final, where she will face Iga Swiatek for the title.
The 23-year-old American triumphed 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 in a fiercely contested semifinal, extending her head-to-head dominance over Sabalenka to 6-3 and keeping alive hopes of a third different American women’s Grand Slam champion this year.
Anisimova, competing in her first major semifinal since her breakout 2019 French Open run, showcased fearless shot-making and resilience under pressure. After splitting the first two sets, she seized control in the decider, capitalizing on Sabalenka’s errors to clinch victory on Centre Court, where temperatures soared to 30 degrees Celsius. The Belarusian, who had reached the finals of the Australian and French Opens this year, fell short in her bid to become the first woman since Serena Williams in 2015 to make four consecutive major finals.
“This doesn’t feel real right now,” an emotional Anisimova said after the match. “Aryna is such an incredible competitor and an inspiration. To come out on top today and reach my first Wimbledon final is so special.” The 13th seed, who took a mental health break in 2023, reflected on her remarkable comeback, calling the achievement “indescribable.”
Awaiting her in Saturday’s final is five-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek, who stormed past Tokyo Olympic gold medalist Belinda Bencic 6-2, 6-0 in a dominant display. The Polish star, previously considered a clay-court specialist, has embraced grass this season, reaching her first Wimbledon final with ruthless efficiency.
“I never dreamed this was possible,” Swiatek admitted. “Tennis keeps surprising me. I didn’t think I’d play well on grass, but I’m loving it.” The world No. 2 acknowledged Anisimova’s threat, recalling their junior matches and praising her opponent’s aggressive style.
The championship clash will mark the eighth consecutive year Wimbledon crowns a new women’s champion. Anisimova, aiming to become the first American winner since Serena Williams in 2016, vowe
