Black Clouds Over Easter in Front of Roland Garros: This May Put Her in a Bad Mood
As the French Open looms, a metaphorical storm brews over the tennis world—not on the courts of Roland Garros, but within the emotional sphere of rising star Amanda Anisimova. With Easter just behind us and the clay season in full swing, what should be a time of spiritual renewal and focus has instead turned into a time of internal turmoil for the young American.
Easter, for many, is a time of peace, reflection, and hope. For Anisimova, however, this year it may have served as a painful reminder of family, absence, and the pressures that continue to weigh heavily on her young shoulders. Having tragically lost her father and former coach Konstantin in 2019, Amanda has carried the burden of grief even while navigating the unforgiving world of professional tennis. Holidays can deepen that emotional wound, especially when spent far from home, away from loved ones, in the isolating environment of international competition.
Now, just weeks before Roland Garros—a Grand Slam she once dazzled at, reaching the semifinals in 2019—those emotions may resurface. The memory of her breakthrough performance on the red clay is now a double-edged sword: a source of pride, but also a haunting reminder of what once was, and what could have been if not for personal tragedy and career setbacks.
Adding to the dark clouds is her inconsistent form. Amanda has been struggling to find stability in her game following injuries and breaks from the tour. Her flashes of brilliance are still evident, but they’re often overshadowed by early-round exits and visible frustration. The clay courts of Europe, demanding both mental resilience and physical endurance, don’t offer much comfort for a player already battling doubts and emotional fatigue.
There’s also the psychological toll of expectations. Media and fans continue to frame her as a future Grand Slam champion, yet each tournament that ends in disappointment only amplifies the pressure. Easter may have brought personal reflection, but it also set the stage for a reckoning: is she ready to fight through the clay gauntlet once more, or will the emotional storm prove too much?
Off-court factors could also be contributing to the clouded atmosphere. Amanda has spoken in the past about her mental health struggles and the importance of taking time away when needed. If she’s feeling that pressure again—especially in a season as mentally taxing as the clay swing—it’s possible her motivation or spirit could be waning, right when it’s needed most.
As Roland Garros approaches, all eyes will be on her body language, her energy, and how she carries herself through the press conferences and pre-tournament matches. A bad mood, sparked by unresolved grief or holiday loneliness, could seep into her performance. And yet, as we’ve seen before, Amanda Anisimova has the capacity to turn adversity into strength.
The question is: can she clear the clouds this time—or will Easter’s emotional shadow linger on the clay?