Amanda Anisimova, currently ranked World No. 6, has been reflecting on her early memories of the Miami Open. As a child, she would spend entire days at the tournament, watching her idols and experiencing the event from a fan’s perspective. Now, she’s aiming for her first significant result at the tournament.
From Fan to Player
For Anisimova, the Miami Open serves as a homecoming and a reminder of her beginnings. She fondly recalls attending the event when it was held in Key Biscayne. Long before she envisioned herself competing in the draw, she would spend her time watching the matches and soaking in the atmosphere.
Nearly a decade after her WTA Tour main-draw debut in 2017, Anisimova returns with a different outlook. She’s no longer the kid in the stands but a player that fans come to see. With her home base located in Miami Beach, the connection to the tournament is even more personal.
Childhood Memories at Crandon Park
Anisimova has fond memories of the former venue at Crandon Park, which hosted the tournament from 1987 to 2018. She remembers it being one of her favourite times of the year. She also considered becoming a ball kid but decided against it due to the demanding training.
She recalls watching Caroline Wozniacki, Roger Federer and Victoria Azarenka play. One of her most cherished memories involves Maria Sharapova and Serena Williams signing her hat. She wore that hat religiously for the following year.
At the time, Anisimova never imagined she would follow in their footsteps one day. She said she was a fan and while she competed, the dream of playing professionally seemed distant.
Miami Open Breakthrough
Anisimova’s career effectively began at the Miami Open. Her first match against Taylor Townsend resulted in a tough three-set loss. However, she returned the following year and secured a win against Qiang Wang, a match in which she injured her right foot in the third set. Unfortunately, she had to withdraw from the tournament before her next match against Garbine Muguruza.
The Miami Open then moved to Hard Rock Stadium the following year. Anisimova is still seeking a breakthrough at the tournament. Her best result came last year, with a win over Mirra Andreeva before losing to Emma Raducanu in the fourth round.
This year, with higher expectations, Anisimova has the advantage of sleeping in her own bed. She also sometimes drives to the stadium with friends, adding to the fun and familiar feeling of the tournament.
Anisimova is looking ahead to this year’s tournament.