WASHINGTON, June 3 (Xinhua) -- 17-year-old Amanda Anisimova reached her first career Grand Slam quarterfinal at the French Open on Monday, defeating qualifier Aliona Bolsova of Spain in straight sets 6-3, 6-0.
The American struck 33 winners to end the fairytale run of Bolsova, who had progressed to the round of 16 on her Grand Slam main draw debut.
"I was a bit nervous, but when I was about to step on court I was able to push my nerves aside," Anisimova said. "I think that really helped me, because I was just taking my time during the match and I was making some effortless shots."
"So I'm really happy about that because I was playing relaxed even though I was nervous before the match. So I'm happy that didn't kick in," she added.
Anisimova's achievement represents a milestone for the next generation of WTA players, with the American becoming the first player born in the 2000s, male or female, to reach a Grand Slam quarterfinal.
Anisimova has yet to drop a set at Roland Garros in an impressive run that includes a second-round defeat of No.11 seed Aryna Sabalenka from Belarus.
Anisimova's reward will be a clash with defending French Open champion and former world No.1 Simona Halep. It'll be the pair's first meeting.
"I can't describe how excited I am," Anisimova said. "It's amazing playing her. She won it the previous year. So honestly, I couldn't ask for a better matchup. I'm just extremely happy and excited for the next round."
