“Don’t Ever Understand”: Victoria Azarenka Calls for a Rule Change After Australian Open 2021 Upset

With the first round of the Australian Open 2021 underway, we already have a big upset to contemplate. The former World No.1 Victoria Azarenka lost to Jessica Pegula in the opening match.

Given that she took a medical timeout in the second set, the 31-year-old Belarusian was bombarded with medical questions after the match. This, however, did not go very down well with her.

Victoria Azarenka wants a rule to protect players’ health information

The two-time Australian Open champion must have not seen this day coming so early in the tournament. She gave away a 5-2 lead and a set point to lose the match 5-7, 4-6.

During the match, Victoria Azarenka had taken a medical timeout. She was on her knees with trainers sprinting towards her, and apparently, she also used an inhaler.

When the reporters inquired about it, the three-time US Open finalist let out her frustration.

“It shouldn’t be a mandatory requirement for people to talk about their health issues. Even legally doctors should not release any information,” Vika said.

Adding to that, she asked for rules to protect player’s health information. “I feel like that should put a bit of a light on a new and adjusted rule that should be in place,” the Belarusian said.

Azarenka not happy with reporters’ questions on medical conditions

Considering the start of the match, Azarenka was in a position to clear the round in straight sets. However, she suddenly snapped out and couldn’t manage to come back in the match.

To get under the situation, the journalist asked her about her medical status. She responded, “I don’t really know why we’re getting asked about some of, like, medical conditions from players because all this is going out on the Internet after for people to talk about, to judge about.”

Clearly, Vika did not like the question. Further, she elaborated her views on such questions.

“I truly don’t ever understand that rule of why, when somebody is sick, injured, or whatever, they have to give their medical reason out in the world. I think that should be changed, unless players do want to talk about that, then they can,” Azarenka concluded.

In any condition, the result will haunt the Belarusian in the coming days. On the other side, Pegula means serious business in 2021.

The American will meet the winner of the match between Destanee Aiava or Samantha Stosur, one of the two wildcard entrants in the next round. Will she easily make it to the third round of the Australian Open 2021?

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