Amanda Anisimova will make her surprising return to WTA action just after New Years Day when she faces Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova at the ASB Classic in Auckland in one of the main ties of the opening round and the clash of Day One.
Surprising given that Anisimova had seemingly left tennis behind for the time being with the former two time WTA titlist, and French Open semi-finalist deciding to take a break due to mental health, burnout and fatigue and became one of the first players to do so. Garbine Muguruza has been another example who has not yet returned to action.
Amanda Anisimova on why life on tour can become overwhelming & isolating for players: “I think a lot of people who follow us on social media or watch tennis casually, they don't really understand it fully. I don't think anyone does unless you're in it, just how overwhelming &…
Since then Anisimova has began a university degree being only 22 and was seemingly set for a prolonged break from the tour, but the American delighted fans when she was confirmed in Entry Lists during the Australian Summer swing and will play in New Zealand to start off with.
Speaking in an interview for the WTA, Anisimova opened up about tour life and the 'constant cycle' that players have to go on which in reality broke her down and saw her put a halt on her career which she said has made her more mindful to watch what she is doing and take breaks when needed if it all gets too much again.
“I think a lot of people who follow us on social media or watch tennis casually, they don't really understand it fully. I don't think anyone does unless you're in it, just how overwhelming & difficult it can be," said Anisimova as per WTA's website.
"You lose in a tournament & then you have to buy tickets & pack all your stuff & fly the next day & you're so exhausted from your match & upset. It's always like that, it's a constant cycle. It can be very draining & isolating. I need to keep that in mind & make sure that I'm taking breaks & taking a rest day & resetting before the next one.”
