The article discusses the intense pressures faced by professional tennis players, focusing on Amanda Anisimova's experience. Once a promising teen prodigy, Anisimova struggled with severe stress which led her to take a two-year break from the sport. Throughout her early career, she had faced unrealistic expectations, and her decision to step away was a significant turning point, allowing her to prioritize her mental well-being. Her reflection on past achievements at a young age highlights the emotional challenges of balancing success in a demanding sport with personal health.
At an age when most tennis players are still finding their feet on the junior circuit, seven years ago a 16-year-old Anisimova arrived on the WTA tour seemingly fully formed.
I felt like it was just unfair for me to just keep pushing and pushing as if I'm not a human being.
In hindsight, Anisimova says, she was not old enough to appreciate the significance of such an achievement: I was obviously very young, and I didn't have to deal with the highs and lows of the sport so much.
By 2022, the many stressors presented by professional tennis had penetrated the American player's psyche: I was just struggling with the lifestyle and just dealing with a lot of stress.
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