Amanda Anisimova's Mystery Drink Sparks Buzz After Cincinnati Win

American tennis star Amanda Anisimova created a viral moment during her Cincinnati Open win, with fans and commentators speculating she was drinking a beer mid-match. The 24-year-old, ranked world No. 10, ultimately cruised past Alex Eala 6-2 in the final set on Monday, August 24, to reach the Round of 16.

Did Amanda Anisimova drink a beer during her match?

During her second set against Alex Eala, the Tennis Channel broadcast showed Anisimova sipping from a plastic cup she retrieved from under a towel. The secretive act and the cup's appearance led to immediate speculation. Broadcaster Brett Haber remarked, "I would never suggest that a player was drinking a beer in the middle of a match, but that’s certainly what it looked like." Co-commentator Lindsay Davenport suggested it could be apple cider. Players are prohibited from consuming alcohol during matches, and the beverage's true nature remains unknown. Anisimova's strong performance after the incident, winning the final set 6-2, only fueled the fun on social media.

How is Anisimova prioritizing her mental health?

In a separate interview on August 24, Anisimova spoke candidly about her decision to take an indefinite mental health break from tennis in May 2023. She returned after eight months in January 2024 and reached the Wimbledon final in July 2025. "I think there's actually a lot of strength in being vulnerable and honest about your experiences," she told Us Weekly while partnering with Pure Leaf Iced Tea. She said sharing her reasons for the break resonated with many people and ultimately made her a stronger, more authentic athlete. This perspective shapes her approach as she competes in the US Open.

What's next for Anisimova's tournament schedule?

Following her North American hardcourt swing, Anisimova's schedule includes a debut at the upgraded WTA 500 Singapore Tennis Open. The tournament announced she is among 19 top-50 players confirmed for the event, which runs from September 21 to 27. It kicks off the Asian Swing and features a field including world No. 3 Jessica Pegula and defending champion Elise Mertens.

What happened in her recent matches against Eala and Svitolina?

Anisimova prepared for her Cincinnati meeting with Eala by praising the Filipina's incredible season and anticipating a packed stadium. She had found her rhythm earlier in the week, defeating Zeynep Sönmez 6-2, 6-3 in a rain-affected match on Saturday. However, her form dipped at the preceding Canadian Open. There, her run ended in a 78-minute, fourth-round loss to Elina Svitolina. Anisimova lost the first set 6-1 and was down 1-5 in the second before fighting back to 4-5, saving multiple match points. Visibly frustrated, she was seen crying into a towel during a changeover. Svitolina later praised Anisimova as a "hell of a player" despite the 6-1, 6-4 scoreline.

• Key Takeaways:
• Anisimova won her Cincinnati Open third-round match amid speculation about a mystery drink.
• She has been open about an eight-month mental health break that preceded her 2025 Wimbledon final run.
• She is confirmed to play the WTA 500 Singapore Tennis Open starting September 21.
• Her recent results include a win over Alex Eala and a tough loss to Elina Svitolina in Canada.