On a radiant afternoon at No. 1 Court, Amanda Anisimova squared off against Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova in a Wimbledon quarterfinal filled with contrasts. Anisimova, just 23 and riding high at a career-best rank of No. 12, showcased remarkable composure through a thrilling second-set twist, triumphing with scores of 6–1, 7–6(9), propelling her into her inaugural semifinal at Wimbledon.
Entering this pivotal match on a high note, Anisimova boasted a recent WTA 1000 title from Doha, a commendable runner-up finish at Queen’s, and an impressive 10–2 grass court record in 2025. Meanwhile, the seasoned Pavlyuchenkova, at 34, marked her 65th Grand Slam appearance and aimed to step into her first major semifinal since Roland Garros in 2021. Anisimova had previously bested Pavlyuchenkova in all three encounters, but this time, they met on grass for the first time.
The opening set was a swift affair, lasting a mere 26 minutes. Anisimova surged ahead, breaking serve early and quickly establishing a commanding 4–love lead. Although Pavlyuchenkova managed to hold one game, she struggled to disrupt Anisimova’s rhythm. The American was sharp and precise, dictating the tempo with 26 total winners—11 from her forehand and 8 from the backhand, showcasing her clean and decisive shot-making.
Post-match, Pavlyuchenkova acknowledged the challenge of adapting to Anisimova’s quick pace:
“She played incredibly well. I couldn’t get my racket on the ball at the start; it was coming at me very quickly. It was my first time on Court 1, and it felt really fast… I needed time to adjust.”
The second set unfolded with more intensity. After Anisimova broke to take a 3–2 lead, she held serve to go up 5–2, seemingly in control. However, Pavlyuchenkova rallied, holding serve after a long game to close the gap at 3–5 and then breaking Anisimova on her third attempt. When she saved two match points during a tense game to level at 5–5, the atmosphere on Court No. 1 shifted dramatically.
Anisimova regained her composure, holding serve for 6–5. Pavlyuchenkova matched her, leading to a gripping 6-all tie.
In the tiebreak, Pavlyuchenkova surged to a 6–3 advantage, securing three set points. Yet, Anisimova gathered her strength, leveling it to 6–6. The tension mounted as they traded points until it reached 9–9. Anisimova delivered a stunning backhand crosscourt winner, setting up her fourth match point. A blistering 109 mph serve down the center clinched her victory as Pavlyuchenkova’s return hit the net.
Photo by: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
After the match, Pavlyuchenkova reflected on her performance:
“I fought till the very end and gave it my all.”
Meanwhile, Anisimova candidly shared her experience of the mounting pressure as the match neared its conclusion:
“It was definitely stressful. I felt a bit nervous, but I tried to remain composed and just keep fighting.”
She also noted a strategic shift during the tiebreak:
“I told myself to seize the moment and really focus. I think that helped elevate my game.”
Post-victory, Anisimova celebrated with her young nephew, who had flown in just that morning.
“My nephew has never seen me play before, so this was a very special moment—especially to experience it for the first time at Wimbledon.”
This visit had been a last-minute arrangement, made the night before.
“Winning after that is just an unforgettable experience. I’m thrilled they were able to be here today.”
As she prepares to face Aryna Sabalenka in the semifinal, Anisimova shared her excitement:
“I’m set to compete against a No. 1 player in a Wimbledon semifinal; it’s going to be incredibly special.”
