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Azarenka silences Aga in the desert


 

Originally published on: 15/03/12 10:54

Perhaps Victoria Azarenka was still simmering from the criticism Agnieszka Radwanska levelled at her in the aftermath of their last encounter in Doha, or maybe her Polish opponent had a rare off-day. Either way, the world No.1 was in searing hot form in their latest meet at the BNP Paribas Open, powering through the first 11 games of the match without a blemish before ultimately coasting through to the semi-finals on the back of a 6-0 6-2 victory.  

“It was just her day today,” shrugged Radwanska, who had admitted a few weeks earlier she was “angry” and had “lost respect” for the Belarusian for hobbling and wincing between points despite going on to secure a straight sets triumph in their Doha semi-final. Whether her opponent’s public declaration was on her mind or not, Azarenka was delighted with her display in Indian Wells.

“I had very good motivation because I knew she’s a very good player,” said the 2009 semi-finalist. “I have to play a very good match and show excellent tennis to beat her. I was focused on every moment, every point and every ball I was striking. I really didn’t think about the score, because there’s really no point getting into that. I hope I was a good example of women’s tennis.” 

Azarenka is now undefeated after 21 matches in 2012 – the best start to a WTA season since Serena Williams did the same in 2003. Should she win another match, she will have the best start since Martina Hingis racked up 37 wins without loss in 1997.

“If she plays like that she’s not going to lose any match soon,” voiced Radwanska. “She has been on fire the last few months.”

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Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.