Amanda Anisimova breaks down after Wimbledon mauling as Annabel Croft pauses interview

Amanda Anisimova apologised as she broke down in tears after her 6-0 6-0 defeat to Iga Swiatek in the Wimbledon final. The American star lost the most one-sided SW19 final in the Open Era but still managed to produce a very classy speech, after being given time by interviewer Annabel Croft who halted their conversation with emotions running high on Centre Court.

Anisimova was competing in her first Grand Slam final, making a stunning turnaround after failing to even qualify for the competition a year ago. She quit tennis in 2023, returned to university and took up art, before returning to professional sport last year.

After Princess Kate handed Anisimova the runner-up trophy, the 23-year-old walked to the microphone as Croft began introducing the runner-up. However, when the BBC pundit tried to introduce her, she stopped and said "we will give you a minute" as Anisimova composed herself before speaking.

She then told Swiatek: "You're such an incredible player. It obviously showed today. You've been such an inspiration to me. An unbelievable athlete. You've had such an incredible two weeks here. Getting to the final of your first Wimbledon and winning the championship, it's so special. Congratulations to you and your team.

"Thank you to everyone who supported me since my first round match here. It's been such an incredible atmosphere. You guys have carried me through this entire championship. Even though I ran out of gas a bit today and I wish I could put on a better performance for all of you, you guys have still been there for me and lifted me up today. Thank you so much.

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"My mom who flew in this morning, I definitely would not be standing here..."

Anisimova then struggled to get any words out and tears began to pour out, with the Wimbledon crowd lifting her via applause before she added: "My mom has put in more work than I have honestly.

"Guys I'm so sorry. A few more words... My mom is the most selfless person I know. She's done everything to get me to this point in my life. Thank you for being here and breaking the superstition of flying in. It's definitely not why I lost today.

"I'm so happy I get to share this moment and for you to witness this in person. I know you don't get to see me live playing that much anymore because you do so much for my sister and I. You always have. I love you so much.

"Lastly, I know I didn't have enough today but I'll keep putting in the work. I keep believing in myself and I hope to be back here one day. Thank you everyone."

Swiatek then sent a heartwarming message to Anisimova as she gave another emotional speech as a first-time Wimbledon champion.

"It seems super surreal," she admitted. "First of all I want to congratulate Amanda for an amazing two weeks. No matter what happened today, you should be proud of the work you're doing and I hope we're going to play many more finals. You have the game for that, so congrats to your team as well."