As the Wimbledon 2025 women’s singles tournament reaches its thrilling climax, world number one Aryna Sabalenka is gearing up for a high-stakes semifinal showdown against American Amanda Anisimova on July 10 at the All England Club’s Centre Court. Fresh off a grueling three-set battle against Laura Siegemund, Sabalenka is fully aware of the challenge posed by the resurgent 23-year-old, who leads their head-to-head 5-3. With both players known for their aggressive, power-packed styles, this match promises to be a blockbuster, blending raw intensity with tactical nuance on the sport’s grandest stage.
## A Test of Resilience for Sabalenka
Sabalenka, a three-time Grand Slam champion, has been a dominant force in 2025, boasting a 42-8 record and reaching the finals of the Australian Open and French Open. Her journey to the Wimbledon semifinals, however, was anything but straightforward. In her quarterfinal match, the 27-year-old Belarusian faced a stern test from world number 104 Laura Siegemund, who pushed her to the brink with a crafty mix of slices, drop shots, and slow-paced play. Trailing 4-6 after the first set and twice down a break in the decider, Sabalenka’s frustration was palpable. “After the first set, I was looking at my box like: ‘Guys, book the tickets. We’re about to leave,’” she admitted, reflecting on her early doubts. Yet, her resilience shone through, as she rallied to win 4-6, 6-2, 6-4 in nearly three hours, securing her third Wimbledon semifinal appearance.
Sabalenka’s ability to stay composed under pressure stems from lessons learned after her French Open final loss to Coco Gauff, where 70 unforced errors cost her the title. “I think there’s a big possibility that I would have lost this match if I didn’t learn that lesson at the French Open,” she said, crediting her improved emotional control. Against Siegemund, she faced an “annoying” game style that disrupted her rhythm, but her adaptability and mental fortitude carried her through. Now, she faces a very different challenge in Anisimova, whose direct, powerful game contrasts sharply with Siegemund’s guile. “Less slices from her,” Sabalenka laughed, anticipating a “completely different game” that will demand a shift in strategy.
## Anisimova’s Remarkable Comeback
Amanda Anisimova, ranked No. 12, has been one of the most compelling stories of Wimbledon 2025. After taking a mental health break in 2023, when she was ranked outside the top 400, the 23-year-old American has roared back to form. Her quarterfinal victory over Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, 6-1, 7-6(9), was a testament to her resilience. Leading 5-2 in the second set, Anisimova faced a late wobble, saving five set points in a dramatic 15-minute tiebreak before sealing the win with an unreturnable serve. “It’s been an extraordinary year for me, so many highs,” she said, her joy evident as she celebrated with her nephew Jaxon on No. 1 Court. “I keep reminding myself to enjoy the moment.”
Anisimova’s grass-court prowess is undeniable, with 11 wins in 2025, more than any other WTA player. Her powerful groundstrokes and precise placement have been tailor-made for the low-bouncing surface, as evidenced by her finals run at Queen’s Club and semifinal appearance in Bad Homburg. “I definitely think this surface suits her game really well,” Sabalenka acknowledged, wary of Anisimova’s ability to match her aggression. Anisimova’s 5-3 head-to-head edge, including a 6-3, 6-2 thrashing of Sabalenka at the 2019 Australian Open, adds intrigue. Though Sabalenka won their most recent encounter at the 2025 French Open (7-5, 6-3), Anisimova’s confidence and form make her a genuine threat. “Every single match we’ve played, it’s always been tough,” Anisimova noted. “We’ve gone three sets in a lot of them.”
## A Clash of Titans
The semifinal, set for 8:30 a.m. ET on July 10, is expected to be a battle of big hitters. Sabalenka, with her 85% win rate and 14 consecutive tiebreak victories, thrives on overpowering opponents with her serve and groundstrokes. Anisimova, however, counters with explosive winners and superior footwork, averaging 2.2-3 aces per match and converting 46.4% of break points. “I know she’s going to be playing some amazing tennis,” Anisimova said, relishing the chance to face the world No. 1. “I’m really looking forward to the experience. I mean, I’m going to be playing against a No. 1 in a semifinal of Wimbledon, so it’s going to be really special.”
Sabalenka predicted “very aggressive tennis,” and both players agree their encounters are battles that elevate their games. “I feel like we always bring the best in each other’s game,” Anisimova said, noting their shared love for high-intensity exchanges. The American’s mental strength, honed after her 2023 hiatus, has been praised by former champion Andy Roddick and doubles legend Mike Bryan, who sees “a lot of Grand Slams in her game.” Anisimova’s top-10 debut is guaranteed post-Wimbledon, with a potential rise to No. 5 if she claims the title.
## Stakes and Expectations
For Sabalenka, a win would mark her fourth consecutive Grand Slam final, a feat not seen since Serena Williams a decade ago. Yet, her 0-2 record in Wimbledon semifinals (2021 and 2023) and recent final losses to Madison Keys and Gauff add pressure. Anisimova, playing her first Wimbledon semifinal, carries the momentum of a nation hoping to end a nine-year grass-court title drought. “There’s going to be a first-time winner… so why can’t it be her?” Bryan said, capturing the optimism surrounding Anisimova’s run.
This Centre Court clash promises fireworks, with Sabalenka’s experience pitted against Anisimova’s fearless resurgence. As the tennis world watches, the outcome hinges on who can harness their power and stay calm under pressure. Will Sabalenka finally break through to her first Wimbledon final, or will Anisimova’s grass-court magic propel her to a historic upset?
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