"When I was young, all I wanted was to win a Grand Slam & be #1": Victoria Azarenka admits priorities had to change after having son Leo

The Belarusian secured her second consecutive victory at the Qatar Open, this time defeating China's Wang Xinyu (No. 41) with a score of 7-6(2), 6-2, advancing to the round of 16.

The former world No. 1 acknowledged that at the beginning of her career, her primary goals were to reach the top of the rankings. And also to win Grand Slam tournaments. However, since Leo was born, he became her top priority. Azarenka travels with him throughout the year, and they are frequently seen sharing moments on the court.

'Vichka' has won two Grand Slam titles, both at the Australian Open (2012, 2013), in addition to three finals appearances in Melbourne. Azarenka achieved her first world No. 1 ranking with her initial Melbourne victory and spent a total of 51 weeks at the top.

Azarenka's son was born in 2016, leading to her taking almost a year off from the Tour. Shortly afterward, the Belarusian abruptly separated from her former partner Billy McKeague and entered into a custody dispute for Leo, prompting her decision to withdraw from major WTA competitions to stay close to her son.

Azarenka spoke about her love for her son after advancing to the round of 16 at the Qatar Open: “When I was young, all I wanted was to win a Grand Slam & be #1, & I’ve achieved it. I wanted to continue & repeat that feeling. After I had Leo my priorities shifted a bit. I had to find a way to balance myself a bit, where I don’t feel guilty for missing out on some of the time with him & dedicate myself to the craft,” she said

“I think I found a balance through understanding that I’d love for him to see how hard I work & how much I put into it. It’s the best example by showing it. I’m pretty proud he can be around while I’m still playing & he sees what I do. It’s an incredible bonding moment for us,” Azarenka added.