At 35, Victoria Azarenka is nearing the end of her career. A two-time Grand Slam champion, the Belarusian tennis star has given it all to the sport. Even after giving birth to her child, Azarenka has remained committed to the sport she loves, and what better to prove it than the US Open? Azarenka entered the tournament as the 20th seed and has an outside chance to put her hands on the trophy. She will take on Clara Burel of France in the second round later today.

Azarenka is looking to win her maiden US Open title, having reached the finals thrice. However, it won’t be a cakewalk against Burel, who can prove to be a tricky opponent.

Victoria Azarenka vs Clara Burel: Preview

Both Azarenka and Burel have had similar seasons, as far as their performances are concerned. The two are yet to win a title this year and have had an inconsistent run of form going into the US Open. Azarenka’s best performance came at the Miami Open earlier this season, where she reached the semifinals. In the first round of the ongoing US Open, Azarenka overcame a slow start to defeat Yulia Starodubtsewa in three sets. However, the Belarusian star would have to be at her best if she is to overcome the challenge of Burel in the second round.

Like Victoria Azarenka, Burel has yet to reach the final of a tournament in 2024, let alone winning a title. Although she reached the quarterfinal stage of a few tournaments, Burel has failed to achieve consistency this year. However, she proved her critics wrong by outclassing local star, Sloane Stephens, in the first round of the US Open. After getting blanked in the opening set 6-0, Burel made a terrific comeback to fetch a win over Stephens. She would look to continue her giant-killing run when she faces Azarenka next.

Azarenka vs Burel: Head-to-head

While Azarenka is 35 and occupies the 20th position in the WTA rankings, Burel is 12 years younger to her and is ranked 56th. As a result, the two haven’t met each other on opposite ends of the court often, with their only encounter coming at the Brisbane International earlier this season. The Belarusian star went on to win that match easily in straight sets. Despite Azarenka dominating that match, Burel would look to level her head-to-head record today.

Prediction: Azarenka to continue her winning run over Burel

With age not being her side, Victoria Azarenka wants to have one last laugh before she calls time on her illustrious career. Although she had a sluggish start at the US Open, Azarenka won more than half of the return points against Starodubtsewa. She made up for her weak serve with her return game.

Azarenka loves playing on the hard courts and won her two major titles on the hard courts of the Australian Open. Thus, it won’t be a surprise to see Azarenka dominating against Burel in their match today. The Belarusian star is expected to win the match in straight sets and enter the third round. Their match will take place at the Louis Armstrong Stadium later today.