Amanda Anisimova has reached the Australian Open quarter-finals for the first time in her career after beating China’s Wang Xinyu in straight sets at Melbourne Park.
The fourth seed won 7-6(4), 6-4 on Monday morning UK time, continuing an impressive run that has seen her not drop a single set at this year’s tournament.
The win matters because it keeps Anisimova firmly in the hunt for her first Grand Slam title, while also setting up a high-profile quarter-final clash against fellow American Jessica Pegula.
What happened in Amanda Anisimova vs Wang Xinyu?
The match tested Amanda Anisimova from the very start. Wang Xinyu played with confidence and enjoyed loud backing from a strong Chinese fanbase inside Rod Laver Arena.
Early breaks and long rallies kept the contest tight, forcing the opening set into a tense tie-break.
Amanda Anisimova is into her first Australian Open quarterfinal! pic.twitter.com/p2SMWJ5fFM
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) January 26, 2026
Anisimova stayed calm under pressure. She took the tie-break 7-4 with controlled baseline play and smart serving. That moment shifted the match.
After Wang took a medical timeout early in the second set, Anisimova kept her focus. She served consistently, limited unforced errors, and closed out the match 6-4 with her seventh ace.
“The atmosphere was amazing. The crowd energy made it more exciting, even when they weren’t cheering for me,” Anisimova said after the match.
Why is this a breakthrough moment for Amanda Anisimova?
This victory marks Anisimova’s first-ever Australian Open quarter-final, a milestone in a career that has already seen deep runs at other Grand Slams.
A first EVER Australian Open QF for Amanda Anisimova 👏
She ends Wang’s run 7-6 [4] 6-4@wwos • @espn • @tntsports • @wowowtennis • #AO26 pic.twitter.com/F9cO75ton5
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 26, 2026
Key facts from the 2026 Australian Open so far:
- Matches played: 4
- Sets dropped: 0
- Tie-breaks won: 3
- Service games held: Over 85%
Her ability to win tight sets has stood out. In previous seasons, consistency was a concern. This year in Melbourne, her composure has been clear.
Tennis analysts have pointed to her improved shot selection and calmer body language as signs of growing maturity on court.
How did the crowd and conditions affect the match?
Rod Laver Arena created a challenging environment. Wang Xinyu received strong vocal support, especially during key points in the first set. Noise levels peaked during break points and rallies lasting over 10 shots.
Instead of reacting negatively, Anisimova embraced the setting. “You can feel the passion in this tournament. It pushes you to raise your level,” she said.
Australian Open night sessions often favour aggressive baseliners due to slower courts and higher bounce, conditions that suit Anisimova’s heavy groundstrokes.
Who will Amanda Anisimova face next?
Amanda Anisimova will next play Jessica Pegula, another American and one of the most consistent players on the WTA Tour.
Meanwhile, on the men’s side of the draw, world number one Carlos Alcaraz is also impressing, edging closer to historic records at the Australian Open.
Their upcoming quarter-final guarantees a U.S. player in the semi-finals, which could influence rankings ahead of the European clay season.
What does this run say about Anisimova’s Grand Slam chances?
Anisimova entered the tournament as a genuine contender, but this performance has strengthened that view. She has:
- Won all matches in straight sets
- Faced varied playing styles
- Stayed physically strong in long rallies
Former British No.1 commentators on BBC Radio 5 Live noted that her serving accuracy and mental control now match her natural power.
If she maintains this level, she remains a serious title threat.
