Azarenka fights past Pegula for bett1 Open semifinals

Victoria Azarenka nearly threw away the victory against Jessica Pegula but she rallied on time to win the match 6-2 5-7 6-4.

Victoria Azarenka is through to the bett1 Open semifinals after defeating Jessica Pegula 2-1. The win is a very important win for Azarenka who has been struggling with form on clay and will look for some good results on grass. The Belarussian was cruising in this match winning the opening set 6-2. She played great hitting shots all across the court.

Pegula struggled to move around the court and to counter that she started hitting the ball harder. Azarenka was 4-2 up in the 2nd set when some nerves kicked in and she started to make more mistakes. Pegula increasing her power took her by surprise and she did not handle it well initially. The American was able to rally in the set and win it 7-5.

The 3rd set started well for Azarenka as she broke Pegula in the first game. It was similar to her previous matches where she also was able to win the deciding set. However, Pegula pulled it back immediately. Azarenka once again broke her for a 2-1 lead but once again could not handle it.

Azarenka remained calm and patient expecting Pegula to start overhitting the ball which she did. The American committed a few cheap errors giving Azarenka another break. This time the Belarussian prepared and she served out the match with 6-4.