That was exactly what Amanda Anisimova produced on day 11 of the US Open 2025. She ousted out the then-reigning champion Iga Swiatek in a quarter-final match that emphasized her amazing heart and versatility. Anisimova controlled the pace of the entire contest, taking the match 6-4, 6-4. Her US Open triumph is a remarkable return to form following her upset loss in the Wimbledon final a few months ago.
The final match against Osaka, held at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York City, was an exhibition of Anisimova’s attacking style of play. Starting on the front foot, she never looked back—winning the first set 6-4. Whenever she faced a challenge, whether down 15-30 in some of the biggest moments, she countered with her game-defining, high-percentage serve to take her game points.
Anisimova’s forehand let her down momentarily at 15-all as she slipped on a double fault, but the teensy blip was quickly forgotten. After establishing herself at 2-1 in the first set, she found her groove and confidence. Analysts noted that her approach was reminiscent of how Stan Wawrinka played against top competitors like Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal in grand slam finals.
Gavriella Epstein-Lightman reflected on Anismova’s impressive turnaround. We’re talking about somebody who’s just exorcised the demons of that Wimbledon final drubbing all of a few months ago—Remarkable. For Anisimova, this win makes a huge statement.
The second set was more of the same as Anisimova kept her foot on the accelerator. Sofia soon brought the match back on level terms at 6-4, 2-2, with her rapid footspeed making all the difference. If she could get to the ball though, her instincts, timing and power quickly turned her into an intimidating offensive juggernaut.
After a commanding love hold to go up 4-3 in the second set, Anisimova had a tough game at 15-all. Swiatek missed a shot into the net, handing Anisimova the upper hand. And even though she missed a backhand on 30-0, she recovered by crushing an ace right down the T.
As the match went on, Anismova continued to make sure she stayed in control and composed. She hit 14 aces for the match, including one to serve it out at 6-4, 5-3 and finished it off with assertiveness.
“She wins it with another net cord! But what a performance from Anisimova, especially after what happened at Wimbledon – playing like that, she can beat anyone.” – MC Ruff
Anisimova’s upset win had her marching on to the semi-final. It introduced the world to her fearlessness first and foremost, her readiness to challenge any player on tour today. She is likely to next meet Karolina Muchova or Naomi Osaka.