Three-time champion Victoria Azarenka showcased her unwavering determination, battling past the talented Peyton Stearns in a rollercoaster match.
The Miami Open witnessed a display of resilience from three-time champion Victoria Azarenka on Thursday night. As reported by journalist Jose Morgado on Twitter, Azarenka battled back from a set down to defeat American qualifier Peyton Stearns 7-5, 3-6, 6-4. This hard-fought victory propels her into the third round, where she’ll face a familiar foe.
Three times champion Victoria Azarenka comes back to Miami with a good win over Peyton Stearns 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 to reach the 3rd round. Was a break down in the 3rd.
Fantastic match. Stearns really hits some BIG ball.
Faces Zheng Qinwen in R3, leads the h2h 1-0. pic.twitter.com/4fHFXcRDp2
— José Morgado (@josemorgado) March 22, 2024
For Victoria Azarenka, this victory holds special significance. A two-time champion in Miami (2016, 2020), she returned to the tournament after a one-year hiatus. The win marks a successful comeback, showcasing her experience and unwavering determination on the court.
The match wasn’t a cakewalk for Victoria Azarenka. Stearns, a rising American talent, pushed the former champion to the limit. Morgado’s tweet highlights Stearns’ ability to “hit some BIG ball,” showcasing her aggressive style of play. Azarenka dropped the second set but displayed her trademark fighting spirit to emerge victorious in the third.
Looking Ahead:Victoria Azarenka vs. Zheng – A Rematch with History
Victoria Azarenka’s reward for her victory is a third-round clash against China’s Qinwen Zheng. Morgado also points out that Azarenka holds a 1-0 lead in their head-to-head record. This upcoming match promises to be an exciting encounter, with both players looking to build on their strong starts to the tournament.
The Azarenka-Zheng matchup presents a fascinating contrast in styles. Azarenka, a seasoned champion with a diverse skillset, will rely on her experience and tactical awareness. Zheng, on the other hand, is a young player known for her powerful baseline game and aggressive hitting. Their contrasting strengths will create a compelling dynamic on the court.
