Amanda Anisimova qualified for the WTA Finals in Riyadh after defeating Jasmine Paolini during a dramatic Beijing quarterfinal at the China Open.
The 24-year-old American star produced resilience and determination, rallying from a set down against Paolini, showcasing mental toughness and outstanding shot-making brilliance.
Paolini grabbed the opening set after recovering from a 5-3 deficit, using aggressive baseline play and clutch tie-break points to succeed.
Anisimova regrouped strongly, blasting winners to race ahead 4-0 in the second set before closing confidently 6-3 to equalize.
In the deciding set, momentum constantly shifted, with Paolini creating multiple break chances while Anisimova courageously fended them off under pressure.
Serving at 3-4, Anisimova survived six break points, then shifted momentum by breaking Paolini’s serve before sealing victory with composure.
With her hard-fought triumph, Anisimova officially secured her place at the prestigious WTA Finals in Riyadh, marking a career milestone.
This achievement crowns a breakout season for Anisimova, highlighted by her Doha WTA 1000 triumph and maiden Grand Slam final appearances.
She reached her first Wimbledon final, debuting in the Top 10, followed by a US Open final that elevated her further.
Now ranked No. 4, Anisimova continues rewriting her career story, becoming a Top 5 player and qualifying for prestigious season-ending championships.
Her next challenge in Beijing is fellow American Coco Gauff, who advanced with a straight-sets victory over Germany’s surprise quarterfinalist Eva Lys.
Anisimova and Gauff share a balanced rivalry, splitting their past two meetings, both contested in Parma and Wimbledon on different surfaces.
This upcoming clash marks their first encounter on hard courts, promising an electrifying all-American semifinal at the China Open in Beijing.
Anisimova expressed delight after the win, stating the thrilling battle against Paolini “had everything,” reflecting the intensity of their memorable encounter.
With the WTA Finals ahead and Beijing still unfolding, Amanda Anisimova’s season symbolizes perseverance, growth, and emerging dominance on tennis’s biggest stages.
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