Amanda Anisimova Stuns Ostapenko to Win Biggest Title Yet at Qatar Open
Amanda Anisimova has made a stunning comeback, capturing the Qatar Open title with a commanding 6-4, 6-3 win over Jelena Ostapenko. This marks her third career title and her first since 2022, making it her biggest triumph yet.
The final in Doha was anything but smooth sailing, as rain interrupted play twice. But Anisimova kept her focus and stormed through the last three games to become the first American to lift the trophy since Monica Seles in 2002.
“It was pretty stressful, especially with the rain at 3-3,” Anisimova admitted. “I just tried to stay focused because there wasn’t much either of us could do about the conditions. That game was crucial, and I’m so happy it went my way.”
Ranked 41st before the tournament, Anisimova is now set to break into the top 20 for the first time. The 37th-ranked Ostapenko, who had dominated world No.1 Iga Swiatek in the semis, struggled with 10 double faults and missed her shot at a ninth career title.
For Anisimova, this win is especially meaningful. After taking an eight-month break from tennis in 2023 due to burnout, she fought her way back from outside the top 400.
“There’s been a lot of hard work, a lot of tears, and a lot of great moments,” the 23-year-old reflected. “That’s why I love tennis—you experience it all.”
Anisimova sealed the win in style, blasting a backhand winner on her second championship point—cementing her return to the big stage.
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