Amanda Anisimova pulled off a significant upset at the 2025 Miami Open, defeating the rising star Mirra Andreeva in a gripping third-round match on Sunday night. The final score of 7-6(5), 2-6, 6-3 not only halted Andreeva’s remarkable 13-match winning streak, but also marked a pivotal moment in the tournament where Anisimova showcased her resilience and skill against the formidable Russian.
Coming into the match, Andreeva had been riding high, having secured back-to-back WTA 1000 titles in Dubai and Indian Wells earlier this year. Her performance had captured the attention of the tennis world, making her a player to watch. Yet, despite her incredible form, she found herself facing a seasoned competitor in Anisimova, who had also won a WTA title this year at the Qatar Open.
The matchup between these two top players was highly anticipated, and it initially lived up to its billing. Andreeva looked set to take control early, serving for the first set at 5-4, but a sudden break by Anisimova shifted the momentum. The American won the ensuing tiebreak, leaving Andreeva reeling. "Of course it wasn’t ideal,” Anisimova commented on the early break, noting that it disrupted her rhythm. “I was trying to pick up my rhythm after that."
Despite the setback in the first set, Andreeva rallied impressively in the second, dominating her opponent to level the match. However, as the duel entered the deciding set, tensions rose, particularly when Anisimova requested a medical timeout for a painful blister while leading 3-1. The request came at a critical moment on Andreeva's serve, sparking accusations of gamesmanship from her opponent.
Andreeva expressed her displeasure, implying that Anisimova was trying to gain an unfair advantage. "We all know why" she noted, hinting that the timing of Anisimova's timeout was suspect. In response, Anisimova clarified her situation, stating, "The skin broke on my finger so I couldn’t really hold the racket. When you get an acute injury, you’re allowed to take a timeout.” This back-and-forth highlighted the competitive spirit and tension that seeped into the match, with both players looking to assert themselves.
Ultimately, Anisimova’s tactical acumen shone through, as she used the slow Miami courts to her advantage. After an intense battle lasting nearly three hours, she sealed the victory with a swinging volley. The win not only advances her into the Round of 16 but also adds a crucial chapter to her season.
In the next round, Anisimova will face British player Emma Raducanu, who has shown her own prowess by defeating McCartney Kessler, who retired from the match due to a lower back injury. Their meeting promises to be a captivating encounter, especially given their previous matchup at the Australian Open earlier this year, where Raducanu bested Anisimova in straight sets.
Post-match, Anisimova took to social media, seemingly unbothered by the drama. She posted an image of her blister, playfully addressing the criticisms she faced during the match. "I was happy with the way I was able to fight and stay focused,” she reflected on her performance, highlighting her determination amidst the controversies.
This latest clash between Anisimova and Andreeva has not only showcased the growing competitiveness in women's tennis but has also ignited a burgeoning rivalry. Both players, now featuring consistently in the top echelon of the game, present an exciting narrative as they compete for major titles. With tensions running high, fans can look forward to future encounters laden with intensity and high stakes.
As the dust settles on this thrilling match, the focus shifts to Anisimova's upcoming battle with Raducanu, and the wider implications for both players' seasons as they strive for success in the tournament and beyond. It remains to be seen how these narratives will unfold as the Miami Open progresses, but one thing is clear: the tennis world is watching closely.
