Azarenka defeats Stephens 6-4, 6-3 in opening Italian Open match, showcases improved clay game.

In her opening match at the Italian Open, Victoria Azarenka defeated Sloane Stephens 6-4, 6-3, showcasing an improved clay game. Azarenka, who is a former world No. 1 and two-time Australian Open champion, looked confident on the red clay courts of Rome as she took on Stephens, who had previously won their last two meetings.

The match got off to a shaky start for Azarenka as she was broken in the very first game. However, she quickly regained her composure and fought back to take the first set 6-4. The second set was more closely contested, with both players trading breaks early on. But Azarenka stepped up her game in the latter stages of the set, breaking Stephens twice to take a 6-3 victory.

Azarenka’s performance was particularly impressive given her recent form on clay. The Belarusian had won just one match on the surface in the past two years and had struggled to find her form. However, she looked much more comfortable on the clay in Rome and showed a willingness to be aggressive and attack the ball.

Speaking after the match, Azarenka said that she was pleased with her performance and was looking forward to continuing her progress at the tournament. She also praised her opponent, saying that Stephens was a tough player to face.

Re-reported from the story originally published in Hindustan Times.