By Osabuohien Imuetinyanosa
American tennis player Amanda Anisimova pulled off a stunning upset, defeating second-seeded Iga Swiatek 6-4, 6-3 in the US Open quarterfinals. The victory marked a remarkable turnaround for Anisimova, who suffered a devastating 6-0, 6-0 loss to Swiatek in the Wimbledon final just two months ago.
Anisimova’s aggressive return game and sharp play proved decisive, as she dominated on return and converted four of nine break opportunities. Swiatek, on the other hand, struggled to find her rhythm and managed just two breaks from four chances.
The win was a sweet redemption for Anisimova, who said it was the “most meaningful victory” of her life. “I really came out there with, like, not an ounce of fear… I was constantly moving and trying to get myself going,” she said.
Anisimova will next face Naomi Osaka in the semifinals, after the Japanese player beat Karolina Muchova 6-4, 7-6(3). Meanwhile, Swiatek’s loss ended her bid for a seventh Grand Slam title and second US Open crown.
In the men’s quarterfinals, Felix Auger-Aliassime edged out Alex de Minaur 4-6, 7-6(7), 7-5, 7-6(4) in a thrilling match. Auger-Aliassime will now face world number one Jannik Sinner, who thrashed Lorenzo Musetti 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 in the first all-Italian men’s Grand Slam quarterfinal.
The victories set up two exciting semifinal matches, with Anisimova looking to continue her momentum against Osaka and Auger-Aliassime facing a tough test against Sinner.
