“Push Me to the Limit”: Victoria Azarenka Confident Ahead of Serena Williams Showdown at US Open 2020

Former World No.1 Victoria Azarenka showcased one of her best performances as she thrashed 16th seed, Elise Mertens 6-1 6-0 in the quarterfinal of the US Open 2020. Azarenka seemed at her highest level during the match and took everyone back to the yesteryears with her performance. With the win, she set up a clash against Serena Williams in the semifinals.

In her post-match press conference, Azarenka looked pumped up and was buzzing. She is very much excited to play against Serena. Azarenka believes Serena pushes her to the limits and so at a big stage like the Grand Slam semifinal it will be a different kind of a match.

“I love playing against Serena. I think we have one of the best matches – at least that I played in my career – against her. We always played on big stages. It was a lot of big fights. She’s one of the players who push me to the limit, who makes me better. I’m excited for that.” Azarenka said

“It’s been a while since we played. I think the last time was, what is it, Indian Wells. I think we both were not really playing well at that time, I think the semifinal of a Grand Slam is a different stage. It’s going to be a different fight. I’m looking forward to it.”

Victoria Azarenka on her wins against Serena Williams

Azarenka also spoke about what she has learned from her victories against Serena. 

“Well, first of all, some wins are painful. I always know one thing: the match is never over. I think the same goes on the other side. No matter what the score is, the match is never going to be over. I think that’s the most visible lesson that we can learn.

Azarenka has played Serena 22 times with the American dominating the head to head 18-4. They have played against each other three times at the US Open, including two highly competitive and fierce finals ever played at the US Open. Serena has won all the three meeting at the US Open, but expect a real tussle between the two players this year.

Read More: Serena Williams vs Victoria Azarenka US Open 2020 Semifinal: Preview, Head-to-Head and Prediction