After a sensational 2012, Victoria Azarenka secured the year-end number 1 ranking by making the semis at the WTA Championships in Istanbul. The Belorussian had a stunning season winning six title, amid them her first Grand Slam in Australia, made the US Open final, which she lost to Serena Williams, plus she got the Olympic gold medal in mixed-doubles, with Max Mirnyi, and bronze in singles.
Riding on a 13 match winning streak, 26-0 in sets, Azarenka was one of the huge favourites coming into the event. Judging by the kind of form that saw her claim back-to-back titles in Beijing and Linz, it was hard to believe anyone except for her arch nemesis, Serena Williams, could trouble her. However, Victoria's campaign got off to a surprising start when Angelique Kerber hold two match points in the her first round robin clash. Showing just why she is the best player in the world, she fought back pushing the set into a tie-break, before ensuring a marathon 6-7,7-6,6-4 triumph. The effort took its toll though, as the Belorussian found it physically difficult to carry on. She lost in straight sets to Serena, although she had her chances, especially in the second act, and had to dug herself out of the rabbit hole to overcome the erratic Na Li who was threatening to cause the upset.
Her come-from-behind victory against the Chinese saw her give away her last fight and although she usually dominates Sharapova, this time the Russian was the strongest. Despite her semifinal loss, Azarenka did enough this week to ensure she will finish the year as the highest ranked player in the world. Congratulation to Victoria for her stunning year and for developing into such a great champion. Hopefully she will accomplish even greater things next year, in 2013.
photo: GETTY IMAGES
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