World number two Victoria Azarenka seemed headed for an early exit at the US Open 2013 on Saturday after losing the first set to Frenchwoman Alize Cornet but after almost three hours of intense battle, the Belarussian prevailed 67(2) 63 62.
“I don’t think I played my best tennis today for sure, but I have to give her credit – she played really well,” Azarenka said. “I felt like I didn’t take my opportunities in the first set, which was kind of a waste, and it gave her a lot of confidence. She really came up with great shots when she needed them, and she was hitting some big serves too. I’ve actually never seen her serve like that.
“I’m glad I could turn things around in the second and third set. That was when I was really finding my rhythm. And I felt much better in the end after the two hour mark, which I’m very happy about.”
Azarenka will next face Ana Ivanovic of Serbia, who also survived a three-set marathon against American qualifer Christina McHale 46 75 64. Azarenka leads their head-to-head series 4-2.
“Ana is a great player,” Azarenka said. “She has really improved. I think especially this year she’s been showing some consistent results. We had a great match in Carlsbad, which was my first tournament after coming back. She’s definitely in great form and I’m sure she’s motivated and pumped up now.
“It’s going to be a good match. She’s a great champion, as well. I’m looking forward to it.”
