Anisimova Triumphs Over Paolini in Intense Beijing Showdown to Secure WTA Finals Spot

Amanda Anisimova Secures Semifinal Spot at the China Open

Thrilling Three-Hour Battle in Beijing

Amanda Anisimova’s stellar season advanced on Thursday following a gripping showdown against Jasmine Paolini at the China Open in Beijing. The nearly three-hour contest culminated in Anisimova booking a coveted spot in the tournament’s semifinals, alongside clinching her debut entry into the prestigious WTA Finals in Riyadh. “Achieving this goal was my primary focus this year,” Anisimova shared. “I’m thrilled to keep performing in Beijing, one of my favorite venues.”

Quarterfinal Drama Unfolds

Anisimova’s quarterfinal clash with Paolini was highly anticipated, demanding every bit of the American’s resilience. After a strenuous comeback from a set down, Anisimova triumphed 6-7 (4), 6-3, 6-4, pushing through the 2-hour and 47-minute match. “Facing such a formidable opponent was a challenge,” she admitted. “The match had everything, and I had to dig deep.” Her next test will be against fellow American and defending Beijing champion Coco Gauff, marking Anisimova’s sixth semifinal appearance this season, her most in any single year.

Key Moments in a Tight Matchup

• Set 1: Anisimova served for a 5-4 lead but faltered with a double fault, allowing Paolini to equalize. Despite Anisimova pushing to a tiebreak, Paolini prevailed 7-4.
• Set 2: Trailing behind, Anisimova regained her form, overcoming service troubles to win the set and force a decisive third set.
• Set 3: In a pivotal eighth game, Anisimova fended off six break points, showcasing her tenacity to level the set. She then decisively broke Paolini and held her serve to claim victory.

Impressive Fast Facts

Anisimova vs. Gauff: The Semifinal Showdown

The semifinal promises high stakes as Anisimova meets Gauff, creating an all-American spectacle. This encounter not only involves two top-three seeds but also serves as a rematch of their split past meetings, including Gauff’s win on clay and Anisimova’s triumph at Wimbledon in 2022. With both players eager to advance and tip the scales in their favor, Anisimova is optimistic. “Playing Coco is always challenging,” she remarked. “Each match with her is intense, and I am looking forward to another exciting game here in Beijing.”