Amanda Anisimova delivered another composed performance, brushing aside Katerina Siniakova to continue her smooth run in the Australian Open. Yet the post-match conversation took an unexpected turn as Anisimova firmly shut down political questions and made it clear her focus remains solely on tennis.

At the post-match press conference, one reporter asked her about divisions in the United States. She was also asked whether representing the American flag ever feels difficult or distracting. Anisimova answered clearly and without hesitation.

“I’m not planning to switch my nationality or represent a different country.” She later added, “I was born there, so it’s not something that comes to my mind.”

While Amanda was questioned about changing nationality, she had already relocated from Russia to the United States at a very young age. Many assume the family relocated because of Amanda. In reality, the move was first made for her older sister.

Anisimova’s father, Konstantin Anisimov, once explained the decision. He said the family moved to the United States in 1998. The goal was to create better opportunities for their elder daughter, Maria.

Maria pursued tennis seriously and later played at the collegiate level. She represented Pennsylvania in college tennis. However, her career did not progress beyond that stage, and she did not break through professionally.

Amanda, on the other hand, benefited fully from the move. She had access to top facilities and strong competition. After early coaching from her parents, she quickly emerged as a prodigy and began working with elite coaches.

During the same press conference, Anisimova was asked about representing the United States. She responded clearly and with pride. “I was born in America. So I’m always proud to represent my country. And a lot of us are doing really well, and it’s great to see a lot of great athletes on the women’s side, on the men’s side. I feel like we’re all doing a great job representing ourselves.”

She was then asked whether recent events in the United States complicate those feelings. Her response was brief and direct. “I don’t think that’s relevant.”

Anisimova is not alone in facing such questions. Several American players at the ongoing Australian Open have been asked similar things. 

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Even before Amanda Anisimova faced such political questions, Coco Gauff was asked about the same topic. This came after her second-round win over Olga Danilovic. During her post-match press conference, she was questioned about the state of America under Donald Trump’s second administration.

“I hope forward that we can have a lot more peace in our country and more kindness in the way we speak to each other about different topics & things like that,” she said. Her answer focused on healing rather than politics.

She later explained why these discussions feel emotionally draining. “At this point, I feel a bit fatigued talking about it just because of the fact that it is hard being a black woman in this country and having to experience things, even online, and seeing marginalized communities being affected and knowing that I can only donate and speak out. I try my best to do that.”

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Even today, Madison Keys was asked a similar question. This came after she advanced to the third round of the Australian Open. Like Gauff, she answered thoughtfully and with clarity.

“I think my stance has been pretty obvious. I think it’s pretty obvious where I stand, and I am hopeful that we as a country can come together and get back to the values that I think make our country great.” Her response balanced concern with optimism.

As political questions continue to follow players, many remain firm and composed. Meanwhile, the focus on the court remains intense as the Australian Open moves into the crucial third-round battles.