Amanda Anisimova‘s love affair with tennis is no joke. The American’s impressive form at the ongoing Canadian Open certainly speaks volumes about her dedication. But her sporting journey isn’t the young talent’s only passion. Tennis is not the exclusive drive behind her ambition; her time at college opened up an entirely new world of options, which she has enthusiastically embraced.

The American star took an indefinite sabbatical from professional tennis last year. Following the unexpected death of her father and in an effort to preserve her mental health, Anisimova enrolled at Nova Southeastern University in Florida. There, she discovered her artistic side, an interest the 22-year-old had not fully explored before.

During a post-match press conference at the WTA Toronto, the former World No. 21 was asked how her time as a student had positively impacted her tennis performance. Anisimova explained that gaining access to a ‘normal life’ did wonders for her. She also expressed that, despite maintaining her training commitments, her off-court activities allowed her to step away from the typical hectic schedule of touring and reserve more quality time for herself.

She said, “I think that getting to experience like six months of a normal life was very nice for me. It was also to keep me busy, I was doing that as well as training, so it wasn’t that easy. The art has just been something that I can get away from my phone, and just have some time just with myself, so I’m happy that I found a space like that for myself.”

For those unaware, the 22-year-old’s fondness for art propelled her to engage in philanthropy. This notably included selling paintings for charitable institutions like Feeding America and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) via her website, which she dubbed, ‘Art for Hope’. “I decided to launch this website dedicated to promoting mental health in all aspects of life.” To much amazement, the young talent is reaping what she sowed.

Anisimova’s devotion to the sport has been on full display in Toronto. She secured a spot in her maiden WTA 1000 Masters final on Sunday, August 11.

Amanda Anisimova ‘sacrificed so much’ on her way to the Canadian Open final

Amanda Anisimova has asserted her dominance at the Canadian Open. The young pro has overcome challenges from four top-20 players on her way to the final, with compatriot Emma Navarro being the latest to fall victim to her formidable form. The American ousted the No. 8 seed after a three-set showdown, 6-3, 2-6, 6-2.

Later, Anisimova reserved a few words to term her “huge accomplishment” which came two years after her last triumph in 2022 in Melbourne. “Something I’ve been working really hard toward. I didn’t want to finish my career on that note. I had sacrificed so much and given so much to the sport. I’m just happy with how I was able to pull through.”

The World No. 132 will next face compatriot and defending champion Jessica Pegula in the event’s title decider on Monday, August 12.