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Amanda Anisimova Credits Mental Health Break for Career High

2026-09-08 · Amanda Anisimova · Player Focus

Amanda Anisimova is playing the best tennis of her life, and she credits a radical decision for the turnaround. The American star, now ranked a career-high world No. 3, says stepping away from the sport in 2023 to prioritize her mental health fundamentally changed her career trajectory. This personal revelation comes as she launches a major partnership celebrating the very idea of taking a break.

How did a break propel Anisimova to a career high?

Anisimova made headlines in 2023 by announcing an indefinite break from tennis. She had turned pro at just 14 and faced immense pressure, compounded by the loss of her father and coach in 2019. The burnout was real. Following the path of athletes like Simone Biles and Naomi Osaka, her intentional time off proved major. She returned with renewed focus and power, reaching back-to-back Grand Slam finals at Wimbledon and the U.S. Open in 2025.

Why is she partnering with a tea brand?

Pure Leaf Iced Tea has teamed up with Anisimova to champion its platform of taking meaningful breaks. The brand surprised her in late August by replacing a scheduled press conference with a 'Break Conference,' an hour dedicated to reconnecting with loved ones. 'In tennis, breaks aren't interruptions; they're part of the game,' the brand stated in an August 26 press release. Anisimova's own story is the perfect embodiment of that philosophy. The partnership includes a fan giveaway of tennis-inspired merchandise and a pop-up 'Tea Break Cart' in New York City near Bryant Park on Wednesday, September 2.

What happened at the recent US Open?

Anisimova's 2026 US Open run ended in a match that drew attention for her opponent's conduct. After defeating Anisimova, the victorious player was immediately slammed by fans and commentators for unsporting behavior. Specific details of the incident were not fully detailed in the source, but the reaction focused on actions taken mere seconds after the match concluded. The loss itself is a setback, but it occurs within the context of a remarkably strong season for Anisimova.

Did a drink choice cause confusion earlier this summer?

During the Cincinnati Open this summer, Anisimova briefly baffled spectators with her on-court drink choice. Fans noted a beverage that looked strikingly like beer in her bottle. While the contents were never officially confirmed, the moment sparked lighthearted debate online about athletes' hydration habits during intense competition. It was a minor curiosity in a season defined by much more significant professional achievements.

Anisimova's current narrative is one of resilience and smart recovery. Her openness about mental health has reshaped her career and now informs a commercial campaign. And her results on court show the strategy works.

  • Key Takeaways
  • Amanda Anisimova reached a career-high world No. 3 ranking in 2026 after a mental health break in 2023.
  • She partnered with Pure Leaf Iced Tea in August 2026 to promote the value of meaningful breaks, highlighted by a 'Break Conference' event.
  • Her 2025 season featured finalist appearances at both Wimbledon and the U.S. Open, establishing her as a top contender.

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