Amanda Anisimova's New Mindset Powers Cincinnati Run

American tennis star Amanda Anisimova is into the round of 32 at the Cincinnati Open, a run powered by a significant shift in her mental approach to the game. She faces Filipina star Alex Eala on Monday, August 17, while simultaneously launching a partnership with Pure Leaf Iced Tea that champions the power of taking breaks.

How Did Anisimova Change Her Tennis Mindset?

Anisimova has publicly shared that she stopped hyperfocusing on winning a Grand Slam or any other single goal. This change in perspective came after she stepped away from the sport for a period. She credits that break with helping her find a happier, more sustainable relationship with tennis. The 24-year-old now focuses on the daily process rather than fixating on major outcomes, a shift she says has been fundamental.

What's Next for Anisimova at the Cincinnati Open?

Her immediate challenge is a third-round match against Alex Eala. The match is scheduled for approximately 8:30 p.m. Eastern on Monday, August 17, on the P & G Center Court in Mason, Ohio. For viewers in the Philippines, the match will start around 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, August 18. This is the first career meeting between the two players. Eala, the No. 17 seed, advanced after her previous opponent retired.

In the United States, the match will be televised on the Tennis Channel and streamed via the Tennis Channel App. Filipino viewers can watch on Premier Sports 2 (Cignal TV Channel 273 HD) or through the Cignal Play and BlastTV apps.

Why Did Pure Leaf Partner with Amanda Anisimova?

Pure Leaf Iced Tea is partnering with Anisimova to promote its platform about taking meaningful breaks. The brand surprised her by replacing a scheduled press conference with a "Break Conference" on August 26, 2026. That hour was dedicated to resetting and reconnecting before her next tournament. Pure Leaf is releasing a tennis-inspired Set Break Collection, with fans able to win autographed merchandise. A fan experience is also planned for New York City near Bryant Park on Wednesday, September 2.

Anisimova's advocacy for breaks aligns perfectly with the brand's message. In tennis, set breaks and changeovers are built into the structure of the game. Pure Leaf argues that similar pauses are needed in everyday life.

• Mental Shift: Anisimova's improved results stem from abandoning rigid goals and embracing a process-oriented mindset after a break from tennis.
• Key Match: She faces rising star Alex Eala in the Cincinnati Open round of 32 on August 17 at approximately 8:30 p.m. ET.
• Brand Partnership: Anisimova is working with Pure Leaf Iced Tea to highlight the importance of taking breaks, highlighted by a surprise "Break Conference" on August 26.

Her current form and refreshed outlook make her a dangerous opponent for anyone in the draw. This combination of power tennis and a calmer mental state is defining Amanda Anisimova's 2026 season.