Aryna Sabalenka has established herself as the most dominant player on the WTA Tour today.
Since the start of 2023 the 27-year-old has won three Grand Slams and regained the world number one ranking.
The Belarusian has an imposing presence on court and her aggressive and powerful playing style has left many players overwhelmed during the last two seasons.
But there is one player in particular that Aryna Sabalenka has not been able to dominate over the course of their head-to-head rivalry.
Lindsey Davenport says Amanda Anisimova plays in a way that Aryna Sabalenka ‘struggles’ with
Sabalenka has a great ability to hit the first meaningful strike in a rally that enables her to take control and dominate the point.
But Lindsey Davenport has identified a player who Sabalenka has struggled to impose herself on during the course of their head-to-head rivalry.
That player is Wimbledon semi-final opponent Amanda Anisimova, and Davenport, the 1999 champion at SW19, explains why.
“It hasn’t been easy for any of the players to have the upper hand on Aryna Sabalenka,” Davenport told Tennis Channel.
“Anisimova is one of the few who does not mind this matchup. Anisimova likes when power is coming at her. She’s one of the best ball strikers on tour.
“She times her ground stroke so well and one of the reasons that Sabalenka struggles is because the ball sometimes comes back heavier on her and she’s not used to that kind of play.”
What is Aryna Sabalenka and Amanda Anisimova’s head-to-head record?
Sabalenka and Anisimova have played one another on eight occasions, and the 23-year-old has the upper hand.
The American has won five of their encounters, including their first four matches for the loss of just two sets.
Sabalenka has since won three of the last four matches against Anisimova, including their last meeting at the French Open in June.
However, they will contest the Wimbledon semi-final, which will mark their first meeting on grass, with both players aiming to reach their first Wimbledon final.
