Victoria Azarenka secured her second career BNP Paribas Open title in Indian Wells after defeating top-ranked Serena Williams 6-4, 6-4. The win also marks her official return to the world’s top 10.
Williams was playing in her first final in Indian Wells since 2001 and has not dropped a set during this year’s tournament. However, she appeared sluggish during the almost 90-minute match against one of her fiercest rivals on tour at the moment. The American converted just one out of 10 break point opportunities and produced 33 unforced errors.
As for Azarenka, she played impressively well with 86 % of her first serve points and held her nerve in the second set when Williams was staging a comeback from 1-5 down.
The Indian Wells title is Azarenka’s first Premier Mandatory event since the 2012 China Open.
During her runner-up speech, Williams fought back tears as she addressed the crowd.
“It was really hard the last moment I had here wasn’t the greatest, so thank you so much,” she said.
“Thank you so much for the cheers; I can’t tell you how much it means to me. I can’t even begin to tell you!
“I’m just so happy to be able to stand here again.”
Azarenka gave praise to Williams during her victory speech.
“I wanted to first address a personal thank you to Serena. I know how emotional it was for you to be back here and you truly inspired so many people out there to see the type of committment you have to the game. It’s truly inspiring.
“Thank you for that from the bottom of my heart. You are an amazing competitor who changed the game.
“If it wasn’t for you and how hard you work and seeing you play so well, I wouldn’t be as motivated to come back and work so hard. Thank you on behalf of the sport.”
Williams and Azarenka will be heading next week to Miami for the Miami Open. Serena is seeking her ninth title in this Premier Mandatory event while Azarenka is seeking her second (defeated Williams in 2009 final).
