Anisimova Rues 'Lack of Fight' in Final Loss

American admits being 'in the back seat' after falling at last hurdle for second straight Slam

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NEW YORK - Amanda Anisimova felt she did not "fight hard enough" in her US Open final loss to Aryna Sabalenka on Sept 6 and admitted to suffering a recurrence of nerves in her second Grand Slam final.

The 24-year-old American, runner-up at Wimbledon in July, again fell short in her bid for a breakthrough Major title after losing 6-3, 7-6 (7-3) to reigning champion and world No. 1 Sabalenka.

She caused problems with her powerful game but could not maintain a consistent level against her more experienced Belarusian rival.

Anisimova had won six of nine previous encounters against Sabalenka, a run which included a semifinal win at Wimbledon, and was 2-1 up on hard-court clashes.

"Losing in two finals is great but it is also super hard. I didn't fight hard enough for my dreams today," said Anisimova.

"I didn't win today, so of course, I didn't do enough. That's just the reality, and I have to accept that.