Watch: Amanda Anisimova, inconsolable, breaks down after US Open final heartbreak

Amanda Anisimova was inconsolable after her US Open final defeat. On Saturday, the American battled for an hour and 34 minutes before World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka overcame her 6-3, 7-6 (3) in front of a packed Arthur Ashe Stadium.

It marked back-to-back Grand Slam final losses for Anisimova, who had previously fallen to Iga Swiatek in straight sets at Wimbledon earlier this year. After the match, Anisimova broke down in tears, sitting in a corner with a towel as emotions overwhelmed her.

Tournament director Stacey Allaster, who is set to retire, was seen consoling Anisimova with an arm around her after the American fell short in another final.

‘Did not fight hard enough’

After the match, Anisimova admitted she didn’t play her best in the final and acknowledged that losing consecutive Grand Slam finals has been tough for her.

US Open 2025 Final Highlights

“It’s been a memorable summer. Losing two finals in a row is both an achievement and incredibly tough. I feel like I didn’t fight hard enough for my dreams today,” Anisimova said in the on-court interview after the match.

Anisimova lauds Sabalenka

Anisimova also heaped praise on Sabalenka, who became the first woman since Serena Williams in 2014 to successfully defend her US Open crown. The win also served as revenge for Sabalenka, who had lost to Anisimova in three sets at Wimbledon 2025. With her triumph at Flushing Meadows, Sabalenka notched her 100th Grand Slam match victory.

“I want to congratulate Aryna—you're truly incredible. I face you often, and I’m constantly in awe of everything you’ve accomplished. You keep achieving remarkable milestones. Big congratulations to you and your team—you’re amazing,” Anisimova added.

Despite the loss, Anisimova rose to a new career-high, becoming World No.4. She had plenty of opportunities against Sabalenka, breaking the World No.1’s serve multiple times and even forcing a tie-break when Sabalenka served for the championship. However, in the tie-break, Sabalenka took control, racing to a 6-1 lead and never looking back.