Victoria Azarenka knocks Serena Williams out of US Open

Victoria Azarenka scores one of the biggest upsets in the 2020 US Open (dailymail.co.uk)

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

 

Former world no.1 Victoria Azarenka ousted the third-ranked Serena Williams out of the 2020 US Open after rallying back from a set down.

After dominating the first set 6-1, Williams found herself in deep trouble after the unseeded Azarenka found her rhythm in the rally game.

The next two sets became an Azarenka clinic after pummeling the heavy favorite 3-6 in the next two frames.

“I’m very grateful for this opportunity. I’m so grateful to be able to play such a champion in the semifinals,” Azarenka said after their intense match.

Azarenka’s victory halted Williams’ contention for a 24th Grand Slam singles title and will have to regroup with her coaching staff after letting her lead slip away that fast.

Hounded with injuries, Azarenka saw this as a chance to prove her doubters wrong and remind everybody that she is still among the best in the ladies’ singles.

Azarenka will face Naomi Osaka in a highly-anticipated US Open Finals.