Victoria Azarenka

Victoria Azarenka is a Belarusian professional tennis player who quickly established herself as a formidable competitor on the WTA Tour. Known for her powerful baseline play, exceptional athleticism, and fierce competitive spirit, Azarenka reached the pinnacle of the sport by winning back-to-back Australian Open titles in 2012 and 2013. These victories helped her achieve the world No. 1 ranking, making her the first Belarusian to hold this position.

Azarenka has won 21 WTA singles titles and has been a consistent presence in the latter stages of major tournaments. She is a three-time major finalist at the US Open, finishing runner-up to Serena Williams in both 2012 and 2013 and to Naomi Osaka in 2020. Her rivalry with top players like Williams and Maria Sharapova has produced some of the most memorable matches in recent tennis history. Despite facing several setbacks, including injuries and personal challenges, Azarenka has shown remarkable resilience and determination, often making impressive comebacks. She finished with a year-end top 10 singles ranking from 2009 to 2013.

Azarenka has also won 10 WTA Tour doubles titles, reached four major finals in women's doubles, and reached a career-high ranking of No. 7 in the world in 2008. She has won three mixed doubles titles -- two being major titles at the 2007 US Open with compatriot Max Mirnyi and the 2008 French Open with Bob Bryan, and the third being the Olympic gold medal in mixed doubles at the 2012 London Olympics with Mirnyi.

Off the court, Azarenka is known for her candid personality and advocacy for various causes. She has been an outspoken advocate for mental health awareness and has used her platform to support and raise awareness about the importance of mental well-being in professional sports. Additionally, her journey as a mother competing at the highest level has inspired many, showcasing her ability to balance the demands of motherhood with a successful tennis career.