One-on-one with Victoria Azarenka

Despite falling to the mighty Dinara Safina in the quarter finals on Tuesday, ninth seed Victoria Azarenka is unquestionably one of the rising stars of the women’s circuit. Could Victoria Azarenka soon be the new queen of women’s tennis? At just 19 years old, the French Open ninth seed seems to be in a prime position to shoot to the top of her sport. Three titles so far in 2009, in Brisbane, Memphis and at the prestigious Miami tournament, are testimony to the incredible progress of the young Belarusian. Azarenka came to many people’s attention for the first time at the Australian Open in January when, leading future winner Serena Williams by one set and a break, she was forced to abandon due to a leg injury. A great all-rounder Azarenka has it all: cunning drop shots, attacking play, intelligent tactics, physical endurance, and even an assured volley, thanks to her experience in doubles. “I suppose it is pretty rare in women’s tennis,” says the modest Belarusian. “I want to become an all-round player, so I’m working hard to achieve just that.” Under the watchful eye of her loyal coach, former Davis Cup player Antonio Van Grichen, the tall blonde is scaling the ranks with incredible ease. World No30 in 2007, No15 in 2008, and No9 today, the resident of Scottsdale, USA pays tribute to Grichen. “I owe a lot to Antonio. If it weren’t for him I wouldn’t be where I am today. I can’t imagine working with any other coach.” But just how far can the Portuguese coach take his protégé? Certain rivals already see her in the top 3 before the year is out, but Victoria is reluctant to aim too high too fast, preferring to progress under the cover of her anonymity. Max Mirny, who won the mixed doubles with the Minsk native in the 2007 US Open declares, “She’s following in the footsteps on Natasha Zvereva, the former world No5, except Victoria will go further. Since the retirement of Henin and Clijsters, there’s a space available at the top, and I’m sure Victoria’s the person to fill it.” Discretion is the key Arrogance is not her style, and the media circus does not seem to interest Victoria in the slightest. Azarenka is part of another world, where hard work and determination are primary. “That’s what Belarusians are like,” she says proudly. “It’s one of our nation’s