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Interview by Markin Abras Photos courtesy of Amanda Anisimova Miami Living: Congrats on winning your first WTA 1000 title in the 2025 Qatar Open! What has changed for you? Amanda Anisimova: My ability to stay composed from start to finish has really made a difference. If I start to drift off or get upset about a shot, I’ve trained myself to quickly acknowledge the miss and refocus on the present. Being able to stay in the moment and not get caught up in the past or future during high-stakes matches is so important. Miami Living: Can you share a special moment with us? Anisimova: The proudest moment of the past year was definitely my win in Doha. It’s especially meaningful because I felt like I had to persevere a lot leading up to the tournament. I was really disappointed to miss Singapore and Abu Dhabi after my loss at the Australian Open, and then I injured my hip during training, which made it hard to prepare for Doha. It was a stressful and disheartening time. I could’ve just gone home and rehabbed, but I stayed hopeful and positive. I focused on mental training since I couldn’t do much physically. Honestly, just being able to play the first round was enough for me, so winning the title was beyond words. Miami Living: What’s a lesson you’ve learned that’s worth sharing? Anisimova: I’ve learned how crucial it is to maintain a positive mindset, both on and off the court. There’s a quote: “A positive mind finds opportunity in everything, while a negative mind finds faults in everything.” It’s absolutely true. There’s always a fork in the road, and it’s up to us to choose the path we want to take. Before my first round in Doha, I was in pain from my hip and crying in the ice bath. I was worried I wouldn’t be able to play, but then I remembered a Rihanna interview where she said, “fake it till you make it.” Emotions can be tricky—it’s fine to let them out, but when we get stuck in them and keep sulking, it does a disservice to ourselves, especially when something important is on the line. Miami Living: Where do you call home? Anisimova: I live in South Beach. I grew up in Miami, so it’s wonderful to always be able to call this city home. I probably sleep in my own bed for only 10-12 weeks a year! It’s crazy how much we travel, but it’s also such a privilege. We get to visit so many amazing places! Miami Living: Can you share a memorable experience? Anisimova: A memorable moment for me was in October when I got to see my sister-in-law, Jenny, get married. I thought I wouldn’t be able to attend because of my tournament schedule, but my season was cut short due to an injury. I flew from Asia to New York to be there, and it was so special to see my mom, sister, nephews, and extended family after being away for so long. It was a great way to start my off-season, especially after a short vacation in Tokyo. Miami Living: And something most people don’t know about you? Anisimova: Even though I drink a lot of coffee every day, I’m often found daydreaming or zoning out.