Anisimova eases past qualifier Gjorcheska for winning return to Wimbledon

Anisimova in action during her first-round match
Anisimova in action during her first-round matchREUTERS / Jaimi Joy

Last year's Wimbledon runner-up ⁠Amanda Anisimova made a winning return to the Grand Slam with ‌a 6-3, 6-2 win over qualifier Lina ‌Gjorcheska to reach the second ‌round on Tuesday.

Anisimova suffered a humbling ‌6-0, 6-0 defeat by Iga Swiatek ‌in the title clash 12 months ago but the American showed no sign ‌of any lingering scars as ⁠she swept ‌aside her North Macedonian opponent on Court ​Two.

Gjorcheska, the first player from her nation to compete in ​a Grand Slam main draw, showed resistance towards the end in ⁠a bid ​to prolong the contest but Anisimova was too good for her and prevailed in 61 minutes.

"It's not easy playing ‌a qualifier who has had a few matches under her belt," said Anisimova, who has struggled with a wrist injury in recent weeks.

"She played great, we haven't faced each other, so it was a tricky first round. I'm super excited ‌to be back here.

"When I got ​here I was filled with ‌great memories and I'm trying to carry that vibe ... trying to enjoy each day here."

Anisimova takes on Petra Marcinko or Sofia Kenin ⁠in the ⁠second round.

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