"I haven't played in a while, gotta get that rhythm back" - Azarenka after Sharma win

Two-time champion Victoria Azarenka returned to her winning ways at the BNP Paribas Open on Saturday, defeating Australian lucky loser Astra Sharma 6-3, 7-5 in her second-round opener.

Azarenka was playing just her fourth match since the Australian Open, having withdrawn ahead of her last match in Doha with a left hip injury. In her first meeting against the 26-year-old Sharma, the former No.1 had her full arsenal on display, keeping sustained baseline pressure on Sharma while also charging into the net to finish points with ease.

After the match, she said:

"I felt that I played good in important moments. I think there were a little bit ups and downs in some games where I felt like I could be a bit more decisive. But again, I haven't played in a while. I have to get that match rhythm."

She further added:

"Today was a good start to play against an opponent who gives a lot of different balls. I played actually I thought really well. I'm glad that I was able to handle myself and turn it up when it was important."