Anna Kalinskaya Breaks Down in Tears as Camera Captures Raw Moments After Iga Swiatek Loss

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Vivek Devane | Last updated Aug 31, 2025 8:39 AM ET

Anna Kalinskaya’s US Open campaign came to an end on Saturday after a hard-fought third-round defeat to top seed Iga Swiatek. Despite pushing the in-form Pole to a tense opening set tie-breaker, Kalinskaya could not maintain the momentum, as Swiatek raised her level and closed out the match in straight sets.

While the loss itself was tough, it was the aftermath that drew attention. Cameras captured the 26-year-old Russian breaking down in tears as she walked through the tunnel, a raw and vulnerable moment that resonated deeply with fans.

chin up anna!! tough loss but you’re a great player pic.twitter.com/vPG8wZlcEf
— Lisa ‍♀️ (@lisa_talking) August 31, 2025

Kalinskaya has been one of the breakout stars of recent seasons, climbing as high as world No. 11 at the end of 2024 following consistent performances on the WTA Tour. However, a slight dip in results this year has seen her ranking slip to No. 14. With the expectations that come with her rise, the intensity of the big stage appeared to weigh heavily, leading to the emotional reaction in New York.

Social media was quick to respond with an outpouring of support, as fans praised her fighting spirit and reminded her of the progress she has made. Many also pointed out that her visible emotions were a reminder of the immense physical and psychological demands placed on tennis players across a grueling season.

The WTA calendar, known for its relentless travel and high-stakes matches, often leaves little room for recovery—both physically and mentally. Kalinskaya’s tears, in that sense, were more than just about a single defeat; they reflected the unseen pressures that even the world’s best athletes endure.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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