Amanda Anisimova, a former French Open semi-finalist, has opened up about the challenges that led to her decision to step away from professional tennis in May 2023. Anisimova, who experienced a rapid rise in the sport as a junior, faced significant personal hardship following the sudden death of her father, Konstantin, shortly after her 2019 success in Paris.

The athlete noted that the pressure of the professional circuit, combined with personal grief, eventually led to a state of burnout that made continuing in the sport unsustainable. By announcing an indefinite hiatus, Anisimova sought to address her mental health and regain a sense of perspective. Reflecting on her return, she emphasizes that the break was a necessary step for her long-term well-being. She now reports that she is better equipped to identify the early warning signs of exhaustion, allowing her to manage her workload more effectively. Anisimova describes the decision to step away as the most beneficial choice she has made for her career and personal life, highlighting the importance of maintaining balance both on and off the court as she continues her professional journey.