Aryna Sabalenka and Amanda Anisimova’s reactions after the US Open final were both similar and contrasting.
As Sabalenka sank to her knees upon winning match point, a wave of emotion overcame the Belarusian; the release of emotional pain collected during her two Grand Slam final losses in 2025.
Anisimova, gracious as ever, walked to Sabalenka’s end of the court to congratulate and embrace her opponent.
The American was later seen crying while sitting on her seat; an understandable emotion considering this was her second Grand Slam final defeat in a row, and an emotion that generated understandable sympathy from former players and fans.
No one likes to see a player hurting after such a tough defeat, especially a player so well-liked and respected on the WTA Tour, as is Anisimova.
Sabalenka, who won her fourth Grand Slam title, expressed her admiration for Anisimova during a heartwarming social media post on Sunday.
Aryna Sabalenka tells Amanda Anisimova ‘you are incredible’
Following their US Open final, Sabalenka said on Instagram: “I’m speechless right now. All of the tough lessons I’ve learned this past season… this win makes it all worth it. It’s beyond my wildest dream to be holding this trophy again.
“Amanda Anisimova you are incredible and played your heart out this tournament. Keep going.
“To the fans, thank you for your support. I hear you and see you, and having you behind me cheering me on, at my highs and lows, is what pushes me to do my best every time I step on the court. Team Tiger forever.
“To my team, I wouldn’t be here without you — but don’t forget you wouldn’t be here without me. You are my backbone. The unwavering support you give me, traveling with me around the world, being by my side 24/7, 365 days a year. This trophy is also yours.
“And New York, I love you.“
Anisimova rises to fourth in WTA Finals race
Amanda Anisimova should be proud of her 2025 campaign. After taking a leave of absence from the sport, it is admirable that she has returned to the sport with such gumption and will to succeed.
With her latest tournament result, she will move up to number four in the world, and number four in the WTA Finals race.
The seven players who record the most WTA points in a calendar year qualify for the end of year tournament, with an eighth spot given to the highest remaining Grand Slam champion from that year.
After winning 1,300 points in New York, Anisimova has launched herself into fourth spot in the race, overtaking both Madison Keys and Jessica Pegula.
