London: Amanda Anisimova overcame a stern challenge from Sofia Kenin to reach the third round of Wimbledon Championships on Thursday, while defending champion Iga Swiatek and second seed Alexander Zverev also progressed comfortably at the All England Club.
Anisimova survived a tense three-set battle, winning 6-2, 4-6, 7-6 (3) after firing 20 aces, including three crucial ones in the deciding tiebreak. The sixth seed showed resilience after being pushed to the limit by Kenin, the 2020 Australian Open champion.
Anisimova digs deep under pressure
The American started strongly, taking the first set with authority, but momentum shifted in the second as Kenin fought back with aggressive baseline play. In the deciding set, Anisimova found herself trailing 3-1 and under significant pressure.
However, she responded with composure, breaking back in the sixth game and holding her nerve in the tiebreak. Her serving became the difference-maker, with 20 aces helping her escape a potential upset.
Anisimova admitted the difficulty of the contest, stating that some moments were extremely challenging, but emphasised her satisfaction at progressing to the next round. She will next face fellow American Madison Keys in what promises to be another high-intensity encounter.
Swiatek continues dominant run
Defending champion Iga Swiatek produced another clinical performance, defeating Karolina Pliskova 6-1, 6-3 in just 70 minutes on Centre Court.
Swiatek, who previously defeated Anisimova 6-0, 6-0 in last year’s final, once again showed her dominance on grass. Her consistency from the baseline and ability to control rallies ensured she remained in complete command throughout the match.
She will next face rising star Alexandra Eala, who staged a comeback win over Maya Joint to reach the fourth round.
Rybakina advances with ease
Second seed Elena Rybakina continued her strong Wimbledon campaign with a straightforward 6-1, 6-2 win over Caty McNally.
The 2022 champion displayed her powerful serving and aggressive shot-making to dominate proceedings from start to finish. She will now meet Belgium’s Elise Mertens for a place in the last 16.
Zverev and de Minaur stay on course
On the men’s side, second seed Alexander Zverev eased into the next round with a straight-sets win, maintaining his steady form in the tournament. Fifth seed Alex de Minaur also progressed without dropping a set, underlining his consistency on grass.
Italy’s Matteo Berrettini, a former Wimbledon finalist, overcame Arthur Fils in four sets to stay in contention. He will next face Grigor Dimitrov, who continues his strong run after defeating Jakub Mensik.
Americans make their mark
Taylor Fritz impressed with a dominant straight-sets win over compatriot Patrick Kypson, firing 19 aces and maintaining control throughout the match.
Meanwhile, Frances Tiafoe also advanced, producing a strong comeback victory against Jan Choinski. Both Americans continue to be strong contenders as the tournament progresses.
Conclusion
With top seeds like Swiatek, Rybakina, Zverev and emerging contenders all advancing, Wimbledon 2026 is shaping into a tightly contested Grand Slam. Anisimova’s escape from a potential upset highlights the growing competitiveness in the women’s draw, while consistency remains key for those aiming to lift the title.