Wimbledon: Anisimova proud to reach final after 'difficult turnaround year'

The 23-year-old beat Aryna Sabalenka 6-4 4-6 6-4 on Centre Court at SW19 and will face Iga Swiatek in the final, after the Pole beat Belinda Bencic in the other semi-final.

Anisimova spent seven months away from the sport two years ago to focus on her mental health, but is now very much back to her best.

She was ranked number 189 in the WTA standings one year ago, but is almost certain to enter the top ten after becoming the first player born in the 21st century to reach the Wimbledon final.

The American is also just the fourth player to defeat the WTA's top-ranked player at Wimbledon en route to a maiden grand slam final appearance, after Zina Garrison (1990), Marion Bartoli (2007) and Sabine Lisicki (2013).

Anisimova could not comprehend her emotions after the thrilling semi-final, but was proud to reach the showpiece match at SW19 following a testing year on the court.

"To be honest, if you told me I'd have been in the final of Wimbledon, I would not believe you," said Anisimova in her on-court interview. "At least not this soon.

One step closer to glory #Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/pWkVmCUE8j

— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 10, 2025

"It's been a year turnaround since coming back. To be in this spot is not easy. So many people dream of competing on this incredible court. It's been such a privilege to compete here – to be in the final is indescribable."

"This doesn't feel real right now, honestly. Aryna's such a tough competitor, and I was absolutely dying out there. I don't know how I pulled it out. She's such an incredible competitor, and she's an inspiration to me, and I'm sure so many other people.

"We've had so many tough battles, and to come out on top today and to come out in the final of Wimbledon is so incredibly special. The atmosphere was incredible – I know she's number one, but a lot of people were cheering for me!