Victoria Azarenka, a two-time champion, advanced to the WTA 1000 Indian Wells 2021 semifinals by defeating Jessica Pegula, the 19th seed.
Despite the fact that she was the early favorite, the match might have gone other way. But the 32-year-old Belarusian eventually pulled up her socks and qualified for the semifinals 6-4, 6-2. It was Azarenka’s finest performance in 2021 so far.
Azarenka acknowledged after the match that she had made some improvements to her game. Furthermore, she stated that it took her so long since her gaming style had proven to be successful over time.
“I’m trying to be a little bit more aggressive. The game is faster. There’s not that many rallies. Trying to use that into my advantage as well,” the Belarusian said.
Eariler in the week, Victoria Azarenka said her goal at Indian Wells was to implement some changes she’s been working on in her game to be more aggressive.
— WTA Insider (@WTA_insider) October 14, 2021
After a frustrating season, finding a great level in her final tournament of the year.#BNPPO21 pic.twitter.com/hI0VST9C4c
Jessica Pegula and Victoria Azarenka faced off
Both Victoria Azarenka and Jessica Pegula gave everything they had into each point from the outset of the match.
However, the Belarusian professional had a significant advantage over the 27-year-old American when it came to important points and decision-making.
As a result, even though Pegula played well in each game, Azarenka had the upper hand and overpowered them on important points.
In barely 37 minutes, the 32-year-old got the first set point on her opponent’s serve at 5-3.
At 5-4, Azarenka received the second set point on her service. She prevailed this time, taking a 6-4 lead in the match.
The 27th seed earned the break in the first game of the second set. All Azarenka had to do after that was hold her services. However, Pegula, the 19th seed, quickly returned and leveled the set at 1-1.
At 2-2, the Belarusian took the lead again, converting the game’s fifth breakpoint. It also demonstrated that, while Pegula did nothing wrong, Azarenka made the correct decisions at the appropriate times.
In the second set, the two-time Australian Open champion raced to a 4-2 lead, and it was now or never for her opponent.
Pegula, on the other hand, was too late, as she surrendered Azarenka a double break lead.
Finally, the Belarusian served to advance to the semi-finals, saving two break points before winning 6-4, 6-2. So far, she appears to be a strong contender for the championship.
Azarenka will face the winner of the match between Shelby Rogers and Jelena Ostapenko in the semifinals.
Read More: Svitolina and Muguruza reach the quarterfinals of the Chicago Fall Tennis Classic