Amanda Anisimova’s coach, Hendrik Vleeshouwers, has shared his first reaction after the American tennis player announced her decision to part ways with him following a series of underwhelming performances in the 2026 season. Anisimova joined hands with the Dutchman after returning to the sport in 2024 after a mental health hiatus.
The 24-year-old started her 2026 season as the World No. 3, but came down to No. 6, with a singles record of 11-6. At the Australian Open, she lost to Jessica Pegula in the quarterfinal round. Pegula also stopped Anisimova at the Dubai Tennis Championships in the semifinal round. The American failed to move past the round of 16 at the Sunshine Double.
Following her loss to Belinda Bencic in Miami, she made her decision public on Instagram. Vleeshouwers reacted by reflecting on her remarkable 2025 season. He penned a heartwarming message while sending warm wishes to Anisimova for her future.
“All good things come to an end, and today marks the closing of an incredible chapter,” he wrote. “I’m incredibly proud of what we built, but even more for the journey we shared along the way, the hard work, new experiences, the challenges, the laughs, and the moments that people don’t always see. I will always carry these memories with me.”
“Amanda, Thanks for all the good times and being you,” Vleeshouwers added. “We have always valued the journey more than the destination, and it’s been a privilege to be part of yours. I wish you nothing but success and happiness moving forward, and I’ll always be rooting for you.”
Anisimova’s decision came days after Iga Swiatek parted with coach Wim Fissette.
Amanda Anisimova Pens an Emotional Message After Split With Coach Hendrik Vleeshouwers
Amanda Anisimova reflected on her career’s best season in 2025 while bidding adieu to coach Hendrik Vleeshouwers. Following her return to court, she was presented with the 2024 WTA Comeback Player of the Year award.
Under Vleeshouwers’ guidance in 2025, she clinched the Qatar Open, China Open, and competed in the final rounds of the Wimbledon and the US Open, securing the third place in ranking. Anisimova expressed her gratitude to coach Vleeshouwers and wrote:
“It’s been quite the ride and journey together. Last year holds so many special moments and achievements together that I will never forget! We picked up some trophies and incredible milestones, but all the laughs and behind the scenes moments I’ll carry with me even more. Thank you Rick, thank you for everything you’ve done for me. For seeing and treating me as a human first, before an athlete. That meant the world to me, and made for a great partnership. Your dedication, loyalty, and passion is undeniable! I wish you nothing but happiness and success in whatever comes next for you in this chapter! 🙏🏽”
Anisimova will kick off her claycourt swing as the second seed at the WTA 500 Credit One Charleston Open in South Carolina. The event will be held from March 30 to April 5.
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