Amanda Anisimova’s Wholesome Nod to Iga Świątek Steals the Spotlight at Newark Exhibition
A lighthearted moment turns into the most talked-about clip of the night
Amanda Anisimova may have produced some spectacular tennis in 2024, but at the inaugural A Racquet at The Rock showcase, she delivered something far more unexpected: one of the event’s most endearing off-court moments.
During a playful Q&A session ahead of the exhibition, the 2025 Wimbledon and US Open finalist was asked a quirky question: “Who on tour would make the perfect surgeon?”
Without hesitation, Anisimova went all-in on an unlikely candidate: four-time Grand Slam champion and former World No. 1 Iga Świątek.
And just like that, a fun media-day prompt turned into an internet-favorite moment.
Newark Turns Into Tennis Theatre for a Night
A star-packed lineup reshaped by late changes
The showcase, held December 7 at Newark’s Prudential Center, marked the venue’s first major tennis event — and it didn’t disappoint. The arena was transformed into a vibrant stage for two best-of-three singles matches and a mixed doubles exhibition that brought together some of the sport’s biggest headline-makers.
The singles card took on fresh intrigue when Emma Raducanu, originally scheduled to compete in Newark and Miami, was forced to withdraw in October due to lingering discomfort from her post-China swing. Medical follow-ups later revealed minor bone bruising in her right foot.
In stepped Jessica Pegula, who replaced Raducanu at both exhibitions. The change not only recalibrated the matchups but also set the scene for a compelling showdown between two Grand Slam finalists, Pegula and Anisimova, giving fans an unexpected but mouthwatering December treat.
Meanwhile, the night’s marquee men’s clash featured reigning US Open champion Carlos Alcaraz taking on two-time Flushing Meadows semifinalist Frances Tiafoe, a pairing guaranteed to light up any arena.
The Viral Clip: Why Anisimova Believes Iga Świątek Would Crush It in the Operating Room
A playful question, a quick answer, and a perfect compliment
In a behind-the-scenes video released from the Newark media day, Anisimova was asked which player she believed would excel as a surgeon.
Her answer came instantly and with a grin.
“Oh, definitely, Iga. She just strikes me as super book-smart, and honestly, she’s one of the most focused people I’ve ever met. I think she’d nail it.”
The delivery was light, genuine, and perfectly timed, instantly drawing fans into the charm of the moment.
Świątek, known for her meticulous preparation, mental discipline, and studious nature, has often been praised for her laser-sharp focus on and off the court. So while the “ideal surgeon” scenario was meant to be playful, Anisimova’s reasoning actually made a surprising amount of sense.
Why Fans Loved This Moment
Three reasons this clip took off
- It showed a rare candid moment
Tennis stars often play it safe in media settings. Seeing Anisimova respond with spontaneity felt refreshing. - It highlighted Świątek’s reputation in a fun way
Fans already admire Iga’s discipline; this amusing “surgeon” nomination felt oddly fitting. - It humanized the showcase event
Exhibitions can sometimes feel overly polished. This moment made Newark’s debut showcase feel warm and approachable.
Key Takeaways for Tennis Fans
- Anisimova’s praise of Świątek added a wholesome highlight to the Newark exhibition.
- Emma Raducanu’s withdrawal reshaped the December lineup, with Jessica Pegula stepping in.
- Carlos Alcaraz vs. Frances Tiafoe headlined an already star-loaded evening.
- Behind-the-scenes clips continue to remind fans why exhibitions matter; they bring out the personalities behind the forehands.
Final Thoughts: A Small Moment with Big Personality
Exhibition events thrive on entertainment value, and A Racquet at The Rock delivered it from every angle, from compelling matchups to unexpected lighthearted moments.
Amanda Anisimova’s offhand nomination of Iga Świątek as her “ideal surgeon” didn’t just make people smile; it captured exactly why fans love these offseason showcases. They reveal the human side of the athletes, the quirks, the humor, and the friendships that aren’t always visible between the baseline and service line.
Sometimes, all it takes is a simple, spontaneous comment to remind us why tennis is more than a sport; it’s a community with personality.
