Swiatek had kind words for Azarenka after beating her in Doha: Iga: “I’m really happy. Vika is a great champion. I feel like she’s been at the top in terms of the best players I watched when I was younger. I’m proud I can compete on the same court and play against Victoria and…
"Not many players left playing at such a high level": Iga Swiatek marvels at longevity of Victoria Azarenka
WTAFriday, 16 February 2024 at 12:10
Iga Swiatek saw off Victoria Azarenka in a 6-4, 6-0 win to reach the semi-finals of the Qatar Open where she will face Karolina Pliskova on Friday afternoon.
Despite the emphatic win, Swiatek was nothing short of full of praise for the multiple Grand Slam champion and former World No.1. In particular on her longevity and the fact that she grew up watching her and now at the age of 22, she is facing and beating her on the same court as her rise comes full circle.
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Albeit her display doesn't scream overawed as she again thrashed Azarenka, but Swiatek as ever was cordial in her post match interview in describing the brilliant Belarusian. She is now two steps away from retaining her title in Doha in what has been a pretty pedestrian run so far from Swiatek and no such hangover from a poor Australian Open. With a battle ahead to retain her World No.1 spot, she seems to be going about it in the best way possible.
“I’m really happy. Vika is a great champion. I feel like she’s been at the top in terms of the best players I watched when I was younger. I’m proud I can compete on the same court and play against Victoria and win. It’s pretty crazy," said Swiatek.
Being 10 when Azarenka won her first major, it blows the mind of Swiatek in terms of her longevity. “It’s really surreal. I was thinking about it yesterday that not many players left playing at such a high level… the ones that played before. I really respect her. Especially you know.. she’s a mom. I don’t know how she handles everything on tour and taking care of her son. She’s an example. I’m just happy I can play on the WTA against such players.”
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