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Sam Querrey predicts Amanda Anisimova will reach world No.1 and pass Sabalenka

Originally posted on HITC | By Max Kilham | Last updated Oct 14, 2025 7:56 AM ET

Amanda Anisimova has been one of the standout players on the WTA Tour this year, reaching multiple Grand Slam finals and picking up two WTA 1000 titles along the way.

She’s part of a strong group of Americans on tour, and there’s been an American finalist at every Grand Slam so far this season.

Her latest success came in Beijing, where she claimed her second WTA 1000 title of the year with another impressive run through the draw.

While she’s fallen short in two Grand Slam finals this year, few would bet against her overcoming that hurdle soon.

At just 24, Anisimova’s best years are likely still ahead of her, and she seems well-placed to break through and achieve something special before long.

Sam Querrey expects Amanda Anisimova to become world number one within a year

While speaking on the ‘Nothing Major’ podcast, former Wimbledon semi-finalist Sam Querrey shared his views on Amanda Anisimova’s potential and how far he thinks she could go.

The American, who once reached number 11 in the ATP rankings, said: “I think Amanda Anisimova will hit number one in the world over the next 12 months.”

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Former world number 21 Steve Johnson then added: “I think so. Leading into the French next year or even Wimbledon, where she makes the final, she has all of January, February, March with big tournaments. I think she has that ability.”

Anisimova’s game has always leaned towards an aggressive approach that can catch top players off guard. That style seems to be clicking for her this season.

Her backhand is already considered by many as the best in women’s tennis, and it’s likely to remain a key part of what sets her apart from others on tour.

Where Amanda Anisimova sits in the WTA Top 5

Despite all she’s achieved in 2025, Anisimova is still a long way off the pace set by Aryna Sabalenka at the top of the rankings.

The American currently sits on 5,924 points, trailing Sabalenka by a significant margin of 5,476.

Before she can even think about catching Sabalenka, Anisimova will need to leapfrog Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff. Gauff recently added to her tally with a record-breaking win at the Wuhan Open.

Anisimova will have an opportunity to gain ground later this year when she makes her debut appearance at the WTA Finals in November.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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