Amanda Anisimova enters Cincinnati Open after viral win

Amanda Anisimova advanced to the Round of 16 at the Cincinnati Open following a hard-fought three-set victory over Alex Eala. The American dropped the first set 4-6 before dominating the final two frames 6-4, 6-2 on August 17, showing remarkable resilience under humid conditions.

The mystery drink that goes viral

During the match, Anisimova became the center of social media attention when cameras caught her during a changeover. She was seen sipping from a clear cup containing an amber liquid topped with foam, leading to speculation among Tennis Channel commentators. Brett Haber and Lindsay Davenport questioned the beverage, with Haber noting it looked remarkably like a beer.

While fans joked online about the drink and some questioned if it was a performance-enhancing substance, the mystery was settled during the match. Haber confirmed during the third set that Anisimova was actually drinking a Red Bull, putting any concerns regarding WTA Tour code-of-conduct rules to rest.

Momentum heading into the US Open

Anisimova's performance, which included defeating Zeynep Sönmez 6-2, 6-3 earlier in the tournament, sets the stage for her next challenge. She is now set to represent the United States in mixed doubles alongside Learner Tien. The third-seeded pair faces the wild card team of Emma Navarro and Tommy Paul in the opening round on August 25 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.

The partnership between Anisimova and Tien began successfully at the Tie Break Tens exhibition in Indian Wells in March, where they defeated Navarro and Ben Shelton. Anisimova praised Tien as an amazing partner, noting that their chemistry in short-format play should translate well to the high Grand Slam stage.

• Anisimova defeated Alex Eala 4-6, 6-4, 6-2 in Cincinnati.
• The mystery beverage seen on match was confirmed to be Red Bull.
• Anisimova and Tien start the US Open mixed doubles on August 25.
• They previously de-seeded Navarro and Paul in Indian Wells.