Amanda Anisimova's US Open Run Ends Early Amid Season

Amanda Anisimova's US Open is over. The American 10th seed fell in the third round on Saturday, September 5, 2026, losing 6-2, 7-5 to Austria's Anastasia Potapova. This early exit marks a stark contrast to her run to the final at Flushing Meadows just one year ago and continues a difficult season for the former world No. 4.

A Disappointing Exit in New York

Anisimova struggled with the windy conditions inside Louis Armstrong Stadium, committing 46 unforced errors across the 90-minute match. Potapova proved steadier, defending 13 of the 16 break points she faced. The crowd urged Anisimova on during a more competitive second set where breaks were traded three times, but a important error on a break point in the penultimate game gave Potapova the opening she needed. "I think I'm the happiest person out here," said Potapova, who advances to her first US Open fourth round.

Searching for Consistency After a Coaching Carousel

This loss is part of a broader pattern. After a stunning 2025 that saw her reach the finals of both Wimbledon and the US Open and rise to a career-high ranking of world No. 4, Anisimova has been unable to reach a single tournament final in 2026. Frustrated with her early-year form, she parted ways with coach Hendrik Vleeshouwers, the Dutchman who guided her breakthrough. She briefly worked with German coach Sebastian Sachs before reuniting with Vleeshouwers for the North American hard court swing leading into the Open.

The Mental Game and Managing Pressure

In a recent interview, Anisimova opened up about her methods for handling the sport's intense pressure. She described a simple, tactile ritual of touching the grass court before matches to ground herself. She also emphasized the importance of mental resets, stepping away from the game to recharge. When the weight of expectation hits, she revealed she turns to her family for support, calling them to talk through the stress. These tools have been tested throughout a season where replicating her previous success has proven challenging.

• Key Takeaways:
• Anisimova lost in the US Open third round on September 5, 2026.
• She has not reached a final this season after making two Grand Slam finals in 2025.
• Her coaching situation has been unstable, changing twice in 2026.
• She relies on family and personal rituals to manage the mental demands of the tour.