Victoria Azarenka faced tough questions at the Australian Open 2024 press conference following her defeat to Ukrainian qualifier Dayana Yastremska. In light of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and heightened tensions on the tennis circuit, Azarenka was asked about the pressure of facing a Ukrainian opponent. In response, she downplayed any added pressure, emphasizing the positive atmosphere and support she always receives in Australia.
“The atmosphere was good. I always enjoy playing in Australia. I think it was great. The stadium is always fun. I always have so much support here. Yeah, I wish I could have played just longer here, but it wasn’t meant to be,” Azarenka stated.
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However, when pressed further about the pressure prospect of facing a Ukrainian player, Azarenka promptly redirected, saying, “Next [question].” The tennis player seemed unwilling to delve into the geopolitical tensions surrounding the match.
Yastremska, the Ukrainian qualifier, secured a significant victory by defeating Azarenka 7-6(6), 6-4, advancing to the Grand Slam quarterfinals. Her triumph marks the first time a qualifier has reached this stage since Emma Raducanu at the 2021 US Open and the first in Melbourne since Zhang Shuai in 2016.
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