FREEHOLD, NJ — New Jersey tennis star Amanda Anisimova had a strong start to the 2026 U.S. Open on Monday with a victory on her birthday.
Anisimova, 25, was born in Freehold Township on Aug. 31, 2001, before moving to Miami at three years old.
She began playing tennis after going to her sister's practices every day, and has since gone on to compete in tournaments ranging from the French Open to Wimbledon.
On Monday, she celebrated her 25th birthday with a 6-1 and 6-3 victory over competitor Ashlyn Krueger, and even received a warm rendition of the birthday song in her postgame interview.
"A birthday was had," Anisimova posted on her Instagram following the match. "Thank you for all the love today everyone xx."
Now that Anisimova has won her first match, she'll move on to compete in the second round of the U.S. Open against Lilli Tagger of Austria.
Tagger beat Tamara Korpatsch 6-0, 7-6(4) to earn her first Grand Slam main-draw win in the second round, according to a report from Rediff.
In an online post, Anisimova's hometown of Freehold Township sent out its best wishes to the tennis star, adding that the township is cheering her on.
"Good luck to Freehold Township-born tennis star Amanda Anisimova as she takes the court today in the first round of the U.S. Open!... Freehold Township is cheering you on, Amanda!"
The U.S. Open is set to last for a total of 22 days, running from Aug. 23 through Sept. 13.
To learn more about the U.S. Open, schedules, and how to watch, you can visit the U.S. Open website.
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