Azarenka powers past Pegula to reach semifinals at Indian Wells

Victoria Azarenka is through to the semifinals of the BNP Paribas Open Indian Wells tournament, after dispatching of 19th seed Jessica Pegula on Wednesday evening.

The Belarusian prevailed in a 6-4 6-2 victory that saw multiple breaks of serve, but Azarenka proved to be the more consistent player. The former World No.1 was particularly impressive on serve, winning 30 of 37 points behind her first serve. Conversely, Pegula was unable to generate much momentum, mostly due to her opponent relentlessly attacking her second serve.

Meeting for the third time this year, Azarenka proved to be the better player and now holds a 2-1 lead over the American. Following her second round win over Petra Kvitová, the Belarusian has been in incredible form as her shotmaking abilities were on full display in her match against Pegula.

Having lifted the title in 2012 and 2016, Azarenka is two matches away from completing the trifecta. She faces the winner between Shelby Rogers and Jelena Ostapenko, who are battling for another semifinal spot.