Amanda Anisimova shuts down political questions at Australian Open
Amanda Anisimova swiftly rebuffed a journalist’s attempt to draw her into political territory during her post-match press conference at the Australian Open on Thursday, reports BritPanorama.
The 22-year-old New Jersey native, currently ranked fourth in the world, was questioned about competing under the Stars and Stripes given the present climate in America. Her response was characteristically direct: “I was born in America. So, I’m always proud to represent my country.”
Having parents who emigrated from Russia, Anisimova praised her compatriots’ performances in Melbourne, highlighting the impressive showings from both American men and women at the tournament. However, when the journalist pressed further, seeking to contextualise the inquiry within “everything that’s been happening in the U.S.” over the past twelve months, Anisimova shut down the line of questioning entirely. “I don’t think that’s relevant,” she responded firmly.
The exchange highlighted the American’s determination to keep her focus squarely on tennis rather than wading into political discourse. Her succinct dismissal earned approval from supporters who commended her professionalism in navigating what could have escalated into a contentious discussion.
Anisimova had earlier made clear she harboured no thoughts of switching allegiances, stating: “I’m not planning to switch my nationality or represent a different country.” This stance contrasted sharply with fellow American Coco Gauff, who provided a more expansive commentary when posed similar questions earlier in the tournament.
Gauff expressed weariness with the subject, while also calling for greater unity. “I hope forward that we can have a lot more peace in our country and more kindness in the way we speak to each other about different topics,” she remarked. This candid acknowledgment of feeling “fatigued” discussing such matters underscores the variance in attitudes among athletes regarding political discourse.
On the court, Anisimova’s commanding displays have matched her composure off it, conceding a mere ten games across her opening two encounters in Melbourne. She dispatched Simona Waltert 6-3, 6-2 in the first round, before seeing off Katerina Siniakova with an emphatic 6-1, 6-4 scoreline. The American will face compatriot Peyton Stearns in the third round on Saturday as she continues her pursuit of a maiden Grand Slam title.
As her season unfolds, Anisimova’s impressive start has cemented her status among the genuine contenders, with few observers willing to bet against her remaining in the hunt as the tournament progresses.
