Victoria Azarenko’s attempt to ascend to her former peaks in Tokyo has failed, following her defeat by Ana Ivanovic (3:6, 4:6)

By Georgy Shablyuk

Victoria Azarenko’s attempt to ascend to her former peaks in Tokyo has failed, following her defeat by Ana Ivanovic (3:6, 4:6). The Belarusian lacked focus in her early games and was ill-prepared to beat the third seed of the tournament (#10 worldwide).

As at the US Open, Ms. Azarenko had moments of her old spark, seeming Ms. Ivanovic’s equal, playing wonderful shots and combinations. However, she lacked consistency, making too many mistakes.

Having lost the first games of the preliminary set, Ms. Azarenko rallied and seemed able to equalise the score. Sadly, she made three double mistakes in a row and lost the set, as well as her nerve.

Vika’s errors were often small in nature, playing just outside the line, or hitting the net. Sometimes, she failed to meet the ball with enough strength. She is clearly not on peak-form. Of course, the same could be said of Ms. Ivanovic, who is known to have recently split with Bastian Schweinsteiger. Nevertheless, the Serbian took advantage of the former world #1’s lack of confidence, pushing hard to her victory.

Victoria has some way to go to regain her former level of fitness and her inner composure. However, loyal fans know that her defeat in Tokyo isn’t a tragedy, and that we need only be patient.