Azarenka sets up Serena semifinal showdown at US Open

0
Lacoste Roland Garros 2025 collection

Victoria Azarenka lost just one game against Elise Mertens to return to the semifinals of a Grand Slam for the first time since the 2013 US Open and set up her 23rd career meeting with Serena Williams.

One of the most iconic WTA photos ever: Trophy ceremony at the 2016 BNP Paribas Open

The unseeded Azarenka fired 21 winners to 11 unforced errors in her dominant 6-1 6-0 win over the 16th-seeded Mertens in their first career meeting. The Belarusian former world No.1, who won the “Cincinnati” title on the same venue a week and a half ago, loves playing the game more than ever:

I don’t think I have ever enjoyed tennis, to be quite honest. I felt that it was a job and something you were meant to do. Winning, you enjoy it. Losing, I was so upset and for a couple of days I couldn’t function normally. Now nothing bothers me. I can say I am feeling the moment.

Serena and Vika at the net after their second round match at the 2019 BNP Paribas Open

Earlier on Wednesday, Williams hit 20 aces to overcome the star of the tournament Tsvetana Pironkova — it is the most aces Williams has hit since firing 24 against Azarenka at 2012 Wimbledon. Azarenka is looking forward to playing Williams, even though she trails 18-4 in their head-to-head record, which includes two losses in the US Open finals (in 2012 and 2013):

Can it get any better? For me it cannot. It’s an amazing opportunity for me to play against a great champion and my friend. I’m excited. It’ll be fun for me.

The other semifinal will feature fourth seed Naomi Osaka and seed No.28 Jennifer Brady. Interestingly, three of the four US Open semifinalists made the final of a WTA tournament after the restart — Osaka and Azarenka were the Western & Southern Open finalists, while Brady won the Top Seed Open in Lexington.

Previous articleWilliams edges Pironkova to move into US Open semifinals
Next articleDayana Yastremska splits with coach Sascha Bajin
Marija Zivlak
Marija Zivlak is the founder and editor-in-chief of Women’s Tennis Blog, a trusted source for in-depth coverage of the WTA Tour, tennis fashion, and player insights. Based in Belgrade, Serbia, she has been reporting on women’s tennis for over 18 years and has contributed exclusive fashion articles to the official WTA website. Marija launched Women’s Tennis Blog on March 31, 2007 to provide fans with accurate, engaging, and up-to-date tennis news. Her expertise and deep connections within the sport allow her to offer unique perspectives on tennis trends, gear, and events.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here