Victoria Azarenka’s Quarter The two-time defending champion, Azarenka expressed hope that she would meet Serena Williams in the final. But first she has to get there. Azarenka has had her fair share of struggles in the early rounds of majors before, and there’s a safe bet she will be pushed to three sets by someone here. But who?
Azarenka’s potential quarterfinal opponent is a bit of a toss-up. No. 5 seed Agnieszka Radwanksa would be the likely choice, but No. 24 seed Kaia Kanepi is always capable of pulling off a big upset. No. 10 seed Caroline Wozniacki, feeling good since her recent engagement, might also reel off a few wins.
How about American No. 27 seed Jamie Hampton? If not slowed by injury, Hampton might have nearly knocked out Azarenka in the third round last year. They could meet again in that same round this year. If Hampton stays healthy and can keep up her powerful game, she just might get the win this time.
Azarenka will be tested. But as she continues to prove, the No. 2 seed often seems to find a way to win when you least expect it.
Next for Azarenka might be a 2013 semifinal rematch with No. 13 seed Sloane Stephens in the fourth round. But Stephens, who continues to deal with a wrist issue, is not guaranteed to get there. Especially with a tough opening round versus the all-court game of Yaroslava Shvedova. Given the massive expectations that will be placed on Stephens to back up last year’s result, an early round exit would not be a surprise.
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2014 Australian Open Preview
Pick: Azarenka Darkhorse: Hampton First Round Match to Watch: Sloane Stephens vs. Yaroslava Shvedova Semis: Williams d. Li; Azarenka d. Jankovic Final: Williams d. Azarenka