'It goes to show that it is possible' - Amanda Anisimova on proving naysayers wrong after reaching her first Wimbledon final

The dream run continues for Amanda Anisimova, who booked her spot in her maiden Wimbledon final after toppling World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka on Thursday.

The American saved her best tennis for the semifinal encounter on Center Court, outplaying the Belarusian to secure a 6-4 4-6 6-4 victory. Anisimova becomes the third American to defeat Sabalenka in a Grand Slam event this year, after the top seed fell to Madison Keys and Coco Gauff at the Australian Open and French Open respectively.

People told her she would never return to the top, reveals Anisimova

The New Jersey native achieved her best Grand Slam result at the 2019 French Open, where she fell in the semifinals. Subsequently, Anisimova dealt with injuries which slowed her progress. The sudden death of her father prompted her to take time off, and she would later admit to having mental struggles that kept her away from the game.

However, Anisimova would return to the WTA Tour last year and slowly begin her climb up the rankings. The 23-year old would win the Qatar Ladies Open earlier this year, making it the biggest title of her career. This would prompt her back into the Top 20, and her incredible run at Wimbledon will see her rise even higher.

Following her victory over Sabalenka, the World No.12 stated she was pleased to make her maiden Grand Slam final, given that several people had doubted her ability after she took an extended break from tennis.

"Is reaching a Grand Slam final the ultimate vindication that taking a break can work for you?” asked a reporter.

“I think it’s different for everyone," replied Anisimova. "It goes to show that it is possible. I think that’s a really special message that I’ve been able to show. When I took my break, a lot of people told me ‘You would never make it to the top again if you take so much time away from the game.’
"That was a little hard to digest. Because I did wanna come back and still achieve a lot and win a Grand Slam one day. Just me being able to prove that you can get back to the top if you prioritize yourself.. that’s been incredibly special to me. It means a lot."

Anisimova will take on former World No.1 Iga Swiatek in the final on Saturday.