Introducing Victoria Azarenka, a remarkable Belarusian tennis star who took the professional world by storm. Born on 31 July 1989, Azarenka has made a name for herself in the sports world with her outstanding performance on the court. With a career that showcases her as a former world No. 1 singles player, Azarenka secured the top ranking for the first time on 30 January 2012, holding it for a significant period of 51 weeks.
Her accomplishments extend to a notable collection of 21 WTA singles titles. Among these are two esteemed Grand Slam singles titles from the 2012 and 2013 Australian Open, a feat that crowned her the first Belarusian, regardless of gender, to clinch a Grand Slam singles title. Azarenka’s prowess also shines through her three-time major finalist standing at the US Open.
In addition to her singles success, Azarenka boasts of 10 WTA doubles titles, having reached four Grand Slam finals in women’s doubles and ascending to a career-high ranking of No. 7 in the world. Her doubles achievements are further embellished with two Grand Slam titles and an Olympic gold medal. Azarenka, with her fierce competitiveness and remarkable skill, has left an indelible imprint on tennis, finishing with a top 10 singles ranking for five consecutive years between 2009 and 2013. Through the course of her career, Azarenka has not only championed the court but also redefined Belarusian tennis.
Learn about Victoria Azarenka & her age, height, and successful journey in the world of tennis. Discover her notable accomplishments, including her championships and records. Get insights into her personal life, including her boyfriend, husband, and son. Explore Azarenka’s net worth and find answers to frequently asked questions about her.
Table of Contents
Birth & Early Life
:focal(1286x426:1288x424)/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/2020/09/12/2885622-59420448-2560-1440.jpg)
Victoria Azarenka was born in Minsk, Belarus, which was part of the Soviet Union at the time. Her parents, Alla and Fyodor Azarenka, played a significant role in her upbringing. One of her greatest tennis inspirations is the retired German player Steffi Graf. Azarenka often cites Graf’s remarkable achievement of completing the Calendar Golden Slam in 1988 as her primary source of motivation.
At the age of 15, Azarenka made a life-changing decision to relocate from Minsk to Scottsdale, Arizona, in the United States. She moved there to pursue intensive training and establish her permanent residence. Azarenka received valuable assistance in this endeavor from Nikolai Khabibulin, a renowned National Hockey League goalie, and his wife, who happened to be a close friend of Azarenka’s mother.
In 2012, Azarenka registered herself as a resident of Monaco. However, she later acquired a magnificent house in Manhattan Beach, California, in August 2013, which became her primary place of residence. From late 2012 to early 2014, Azarenka was in a relationship with American musician Redfoo. Additionally, she has been open about her struggle with depression, which she experienced during her forced absence from professional tennis in 2014 due to injuries.
Victoria Azarenka Parents
Victoria Azarenka was born to Alla and Fedor Azarenka, who have been instrumental in shaping her career. Her parents, natives of Belarus, recognized her talent at a young age and provided her with the necessary support to pursue her passion for tennis. Alla, her mother, worked in a children’s sports school, while Fedor, her father, was employed in a factory. Their unwavering belief in Victoria’s potential played a significant role in her journey to becoming a world-class tennis player.
Victoria Azarenka Siblings
Victoria Azarenka has an elder brother named Max Azarenka. Max, who is often seen cheering for his sister during her matches, shares a close bond with Victoria. Their sibling relationship is marked by mutual respect and admiration, with Victoria often crediting Max for his unwavering support throughout her career.
Victoria Azarenka Nationality & Ethnicity
Born and raised in Minsk, Belarus, Victoria Azarenka holds Belarusian nationality. Her ethnicity, like her nationality, is Belarusian, reflecting her strong connection to her homeland. Despite her global fame and extensive travels, she remains deeply rooted in her Belarusian heritage, often expressing her love for her country and its culture.
Victoria Azarenka Age: How Old Is Victoria Azarenka?
Victoria Azarenka celebrates her birthday on July 31. Born in 1989, she has been a force to reckon with in the tennis world from a young age. As of 2023, Victoria Azarenka is 34 years old. Her journey from a young tennis enthusiast to a globally recognized professional player is a testament to her dedication and hard work.
Victoria Azarenka Zodiac
Born under the zodiac sign of Leo, Victoria Azarenka embodies many of the traits associated with this sign. She is known for her leadership skills, confidence, and determination, all of which are characteristic of Leos. Her fiery spirit and relentless pursuit of success align with her zodiac sign, making her a true Leo at heart.
Victoria Azarenka Height: How Tall Is Victoria Azarenka?
Victoria Azarenka stands tall at a height of 6 feet (1.83 meters). Her height gives her a distinct advantage on the tennis court, allowing her to cover the court effectively and deliver powerful serves.
Victoria Azarenka Weight: How Much Does Victoria Azarenka Weigh?
Weighing approximately 70 kilograms (154 pounds), Victoria Azarenka maintains a fit and athletic physique. Her weight is a reflection of her commitment to fitness and health, which is crucial for her performance on the court.
Victoria Azarenka Physical Stats
Victoria Azarenka’s physical stats are a testament to her rigorous training regimen and disciplined lifestyle. With a height of 6 feet and weight of 70 kilograms, she possesses an athletic build that is well-suited for her sport. Her physical strength and agility, coupled with her mental toughness, make her a formidable opponent on the tennis court.
Professional Tennis Career
ITF Junior Circuit and Grand Slam Success
Victoria Azarenka’s journey in professional tennis began in her early years, particularly on the ITF Junior Circuit. In November 2003, she made her debut in Israel and achieved her first doubles title alongside Olga Govortsova.
Azarenka’s talent shone at Wimbledon, where she reached the semifinals in the girls’ competition. Despite holding two match points in the marathon third set, she was ultimately defeated by Ana Ivanovic, who went on to become the runner-up. As she continued to participate in ITF tournaments in 2004, Azarenka’s hard work paid off, leading her to secure a singles ranking of 508 on the WTA Tour by the end of the season.
The year 2005 marked a significant milestone for Azarenka as she claimed victory in two junior Grand Slam tournaments: the Australian and US Championships. These achievements foreshadowed her future success in the senior competition, where she would go on to win the Australian Open in 2012 and 2013. Her outstanding performance throughout the season earned her the top spot in the junior world rankings and the prestigious title of the 2005 World Champion bestowed by the ITF.
Azarenka’s remarkable accomplishments made her the first-ever Belarusian to receive this honor. Additionally, she made her presence felt on the main tour by reaching her first semifinal in Guangzhou, China, a significant accomplishment for a rising talent. Despite falling short, she showcased her potential by defeating formidable opponents such as Martina Suchá and Peng Shuai, only to be stopped by the eventual champion, Yan Zi.
2006: Grand Slam Progression
In 2006, Azarenka continued to make strides in her professional career. She notched her first victory over a top-20 player by defeating Nicole Vaidišová in Memphis. This success continued as she secured another triumph against Jelena Janković, ranked in the top 30, at the Miami tournament.
Azarenka demonstrated her skills on clay by pushing 2004 French Open champion Anastasia Myskina to a thrilling third set in Rome. She also challenged clay-court specialist Anabel Medina Garrigues, pushing their match to a close 9-7 scoreline in the third set at Roland Garros. However, her journey at the 2006 Wimbledon Championships ended in the first round against Agnieszka Radwańska, the Junior Wimbledon and Junior French Open Champion.
Azarenka’s breakthrough came at the 2006 US Open, where she secured her first win over Myskina in the first round. Her impressive run ended in the third round, where she fell to Anna Chakvetadze, marking her best Grand Slam result to that date. Continuing her momentum, Azarenka reached her second pro-level semifinal in Tashkent, further establishing her presence among the elite. The year concluded with a final appearance in an ITF event in Pittsburgh, where she narrowly lost to Canadian player Aleksandra Wozniak.
2007: First WTA Final
Ranked world No. 96, Azarenka embarked on the 2007 season with determination. She participated in two tournaments in Australia, reaching the second round of qualifying at the Moorilla Hobart International. At the Australian Open, she advanced to the third round, achieving consecutive appearances at this stage in a Grand Slam singles tournament. However, her journey was halted by the 11th-ranked Jelena Janković in straight sets.
During the French Open, Azarenka faced an upset in the first round against Karin Knapp of Italy. Her performance at Wimbledon ended in the third round, where she was defeated by the 14th-seeded Nicole Vaidišová.
The US Open brought some notable achievements for Azarenka. She caused an upset by defeating former world No. 1 Martina Hingis in the third round. Unfortunately, her journey ended in the fourth round against 2004 US Open champion Svetlana Kuznetsova. In mixed doubles, Azarenka partnered with compatriot Max Mirnyi and emerged as the champions, defeating Meghann Shaughnessy and Leander Paes.
Azarenka concluded her season at the Tier I Kremlin Cup in Moscow, where she had a remarkable victory over world No. 4 Maria Sharapova in the second round, their first-ever meeting. She progressed to the quarterfinals but was ultimately defeated by the tournament’s eventual winner, Elena Dementieva, ranked 14th in the world. Additionally, Azarenka reached the final in doubles alongside her partner Tatiana Poutchek. They faced tough competition from the world No. 3 duo of Liezel Huber and Cara Black, losing in three sets. Azarenka’s impressive performances at the Kremlin Cup propelled her to career-high rankings of world No. 27 in singles and world No. 29 in doubles.
2008: A Year of Significant Achievements
Victoria Azarenka started the year at the Australian Women’s Hardcourts tournament and reached the semifinals. Despite losing in her third WTA Tour final, she managed to improve her ranking to world No. 25.
Seeded 26th at the Australian Open, Azarenka made it to the finals in doubles with partner Shahar Pe’er. However, she lost in the singles’ third round to Serena Williams. A turning point came at the French Open where she won the mixed doubles title with American Bob Bryan.
Azarenka faced challenges at Wimbledon, losing in both singles and doubles. Nonetheless, she still managed to make significant strides at various tournaments, despite the competitive atmosphere.
2009: A Breakthrough Year
The year began with Azarenka winning the Brisbane International, marking her first WTA career title. She advanced to the fourth round of the Australian Open, an achievement that set the tone for her success throughout the year.
Azarenka made the finals in ladies’ doubles at Roland Garros. She continued her success at various tournaments, notably winning the BNP Paribas Open, which improved her singles ranking to a career-best world No. 10.
Despite challenges and injuries at Wimbledon, the US Open, and other tournaments, Azarenka ended the year on a high note, ranked world No. 7 and achieving a 45–15 win–loss record.
2010: Consistent Performances
Victoria Azarenka kicked off 2010 at the Hong Kong Tennis Classic exhibition, delivering strong performances despite withdrawing from remaining matches due to illness.
Azarenka reached the quarterfinals at the Australian Open, marking the third consecutive year she had lost to Serena Williams at this tournament. Despite a few setbacks, Azarenka performed well in various tournaments, including the Dubai Tennis Championships and the BNP Paribas Open.
Injury setbacks affected Azarenka’s performance at the Family Circle Cup and the Madrid Open. However, she bounced back, reaching the final at the Aegon International and winning the Bank of the West Classic.
Despite a challenging year marked by injuries and surprising defeats, Azarenka managed to re-enter the top 10 and ended the year as world No. 10, securing her second consecutive year-end top-10 finish.
2011: Successes and Setbacks
/origin-imgresizer.eurosport.com/2011/04/10/709612-21389399-2560-1440.jpg)
Victoria Azarenka started 2011 with a quarterfinal loss at the Medibank International. The year saw a series of ups and downs, but the highlight was her victory at the Sony Ericsson Open, her second final at the event. Her performance also secured her a career-high world ranking of No. 5.
Despite losing in the Australian Open fourth round and French Open quarterfinals, Azarenka achieved her first Grand Slam semifinal at Wimbledon. Meanwhile, she contributed to Belarus’ 5-0 win over Estonia in the Fed Cup.
Towards the end of the year, despite some injury-related setbacks, Azarenka secured a new career high of No. 3. She clinched her third title at the Luxembourg Open and reached the WTA Tour Championships final, eventually losing to Petra Kvitová.
2012: First Major Title, Olympic Medals and World No. 1
Azarenka kicked off 2012 by winning the Apia International Sydney. The defining moment of her career came with her first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open, which also propelled her to world No. 1.
She maintained an impressive 26-match win streak before being ousted in the Sony Ericsson Open quarterfinals. An ankle injury led to her withdrawal from the Dubai Championships.
Azarenka had a somewhat mixed year at the Grand Slams, with a loss at the French Open and a semifinal defeat at Wimbledon. However, she shone at the 2012 Summer Olympics, winning bronze in women’s singles and gold in mixed doubles with Max Mirnyi.
Despite a third-set defeat at the US Open final, Azarenka ended 2012 on a high note, setting a single-season prize money record of $7.9 million, finishing as the Year-End No. 1, and notching a 69–10 win-loss record with six titles.
2013: Overcoming Challenges
In 2013, Azarenka reached the Italian Open final, but lost to Serena Williams. Despite a semifinal defeat at the French Open, she made it to the second round of the Madrid Open.
Her Wimbledon campaign was hampered by a knee injury, but she persevered, demonstrating resilience and determination, hallmarks of her illustrious tennis career.
2014-2015: Struggle Against Injuries and Unsteady Performance
Victoria Azarenka’s performance in 2014 was severely hampered by a foot injury, causing her to miss a substantial part of the season. This injury led to her absence from several major tournaments, including the French Open. Despite managing to reach the final of the Brisbane tournament and quarterfinals in three other tournaments, she was unable to secure a victory. She ended the year ranked world No. 32.
Starting the year with the Brisbane International, Azarenka performed somewhat better in 2015, reaching the fourth round at the Australian Open, and scoring several victories against top-20 players in Doha. Despite these wins, Azarenka continued to struggle with injuries and retired from the second round match in Birmingham due to a foot injury. Her performances in other major tournaments were also not up to par, leading to early exits.
2016: A Comeback, Pregnancy Announcement, and Hiatus
Victoria Azarenka started her 2016 season on a high note, winning the Brisbane International. She went on to achieve the rare feat of a “Sunshine Double” by winning at Indian Wells and Miami in the same year. Despite her success, she also experienced injury setbacks, retiring from several matches due to back and knee issues.
In mid-2016, Azarenka announced her pregnancy, leading to her missing the rest of the 2016 season. In December, she gave birth to a boy, named Leo, and subsequently engaged in a custody battle with the father.
2017-2018: Azarenka Returns to Tour, Battles for Custody, and Slow Climb Back to Top
Azarenka returned to professional tennis in 2017, performing reasonably well at Wimbledon. However, her comeback was disrupted by a custody battle for her son, resulting in her withdrawal from the US Open and missing the 2017 Fed Cup final.
Despite her ongoing legal battle, Azarenka was able to return to competitive tennis in 2018 and slowly climbed back into the top 100. She performed particularly well at the Miami Open, reaching the semi-finals, and even reached the Wimbledon mixed-doubles final.
2019: US Open Doubles Final and Return to Top 50
2019 marked a significant improvement in Azarenka’s career, with her winning the doubles in Acapulco and reaching the final in Monterrey. Despite some setbacks, such as an early exit in the Australian Open and a loss at Wimbledon, Azarenka made it to the final in women’s doubles at the US Open, demonstrating her return to form and earning her a spot back in the top 50.
2020: A Year of Rejuvenation
Azarenka began 2020 on a rocky start, withdrawing from the Australian Open due to personal issues. The first match she played in this year was at the Monterrey Open, ending in a loss. Subsequently, she withdrew from the Indian Wells before it was eventually cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Azarenka’s fortunes took a turn when she won the Western & Southern Open, marking her first WTA singles title since the 2016 Miami Open. Following this victory, Azarenka climbed 22 places in the world rankings to 27th place. At the US Open, Azarenka made a commendable performance, advancing to her first Grand Slam quarterfinal since the 2016 Australian Open and eventually making it to the final.
During the clay-court swing at the Italian Open, she scored victories over Venus Williams and reigning Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin. However, Azarenka faced an early exit at Roland-Garros. She ended the season with a defeat at the Ostrava Open finals.
2021: Overcoming Injuries and Late Season Resurgence
The year 2021 saw Azarenka facing multiple injuries, which led to her withdrawal from several tournaments including the Grampians Trophy, Doha, Dubai, and Madrid. Despite her health struggles, Azarenka demonstrated her resilience by reaching the fourth round of the French Open for the fifth time in her career.
Azarenka reached the semifinals of the German Open, defeating notable players before falling to the eventual champion, Liudmila Samsonova. At Wimbledon, she achieved a victory in the first round before succumbing to Sorana Cîrstea.
Azarenka marked a significant achievement in 2021 by reaching the quarterfinals of the National Bank Open and the semifinals of the Indian Wells, proving her comeback in the sport.
2022: Landmark Year and 500th Tour-Level Win
Azarenka started 2022 with a quarter-final finish at the Adelaide International, despite dealing with a right thigh injury.
Azarenka achieved a milestone victory at the WTA 1000 Qatar Open, recording her 500th tour-level match win. However, she had to withdraw from her second-round match due to a left hip injury.
Azarenka’s performances at Indian Wells and Miami were marked with controversies. Despite these challenges, she managed to reach the third round in both tournaments.
During the clay-court season, Azarenka reached the round of 16 at the Madrid Open and the Italian Open. Her performance remained consistent in the North American hardcourt season, with a quarterfinal finish at the 2022 Citi Open.
2023: First Australian Open Semifinal in 10 years and Fifth WTA 1000 Doubles Title
Seeded 24th, Azarenka made an extraordinary comeback by reaching the semifinals of the 2023 Australian Open, a feat she achieved after a decade. She moved up to world No. 16 owing to the points earned in the tournament.
In a shining achievement, Azarenka clinched her fifth WTA 1000 and tenth doubles title overall at the 2023 Mutua Madrid Open with Beatriz Haddad Maia. Despite personal and physical struggles, Azarenka’s career from 2020 to 2023 underlines a journey marked with resilience, showing her undeniable prowess in the game.
Playing Style
Victoria Azarenka, an assertive baseline player, is renowned for her powerful, flat strokes, often taken early on the rise. Her game revolves around controlled aggression, characterized by an abundance of winners yet fewer unforced errors compared to other aggressive players. Azarenka’s strategy is to move her opponents around the court until she finds an opportunity to strike a low-risk winner.
She possesses one of the greatest two-handed backhands in tennis history, using it effectively to control her matches. Her signature shot, the backhand down-the-line, is particularly formidable. Azarenka also wields a potent forehand, which, despite being more vulnerable than her backhand, allows her to rally and hit winners. Her first serve is powerful, reaching up to 111 mph, but her second serve can be unpredictable, leading to a high number of double faults in high-pressure situations.
What sets Azarenka apart is her ability to return serves, earning her a place among the top returners in WTA Tour history. She can neutralize powerful first serves and take advantage of short second serves, demonstrating her balance between offense and defense.
Azarenka’s swift movement, court coverage, footwork, and balance allow her to implement her assertive yet controlled style effectively. She is also proficient at the net, thanks to her doubles experience. Her mental fortitude and competitive spirit add another dimension to her game. Azarenka performs best on hard courts, where she has won all but one of her 21 singles titles, earning her the reputation of a hard-court specialist. Her playing style, particularly her strong two-handed backhand, exceptional return game, and preference for hard courts, often draws comparisons to Novak Djokovic.
Victoria Azarenka Net Worth 2023
Victoria Azarenka, a name that resonates with power and success in the world of tennis, has carved a niche for herself with her exceptional talent and relentless determination. Azarenka’s net worth is estimated to be around $25 million in 2023. In 2012, she set a new record for single-season prize money earned with $7.9 million. Over her career, Azarenka has earned more than $35.5 million in prize money alone, ranking her 6th all-time in WTA earnings.
In addition to her earnings from tennis, Azarenka has made significant investments in real estate. In August 2013, she purchased a large house in Manhattan Beach, California, overlooking the ocean for $7 million.
Victoria Azarenka: A Career of Triumphs and Achievements
Victoria Azarenka, born on July 31, 1989, in Minsk, Belarus, is a professional tennis player who has made a significant impact on the global tennis stage. Known for her powerful and aggressive play, Azarenka has consistently been a formidable opponent on the court. Her career is adorned with numerous achievements, including Grand Slam titles, Olympic medals, and the prestigious World No. 1 ranking in singles by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA).
Early Career and Breakthrough
Victoria Azarenka began her professional career in 2003. She quickly established herself as a rising star in the tennis world, winning two junior Grand Slam singles titles – the 2005 Australian Open and the 2005 US Open. Her breakthrough in the senior circuit came in 2009 when she won her first WTA title at the Brisbane International and reached the quarterfinals of the French Open.
Grand Slam Success
Azarenka’s Grand Slam success is a testament to her skill and tenacity. She has won two Grand Slam singles titles, both at the Australian Open in 2012 and 2013. In both years, she defeated formidable opponents, showcasing her ability to perform under pressure. Her Grand Slam journey also includes three runner-up finishes at the US Open in 2012, 2013, and 2020.
World No. 1 Ranking
One of the pinnacles of Azarenka’s career was achieving the World No. 1 ranking in singles. She first reached the top of the rankings on January 30, 2012, after winning her first Australian Open title. She held the No. 1 spot for a total of 51 weeks, demonstrating her consistency at the highest level of the sport.
Olympic Glory
Azarenka’s success is not limited to Grand Slam tournaments. She has also shone on the Olympic stage. At the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, she won the gold medal in mixed doubles with Max Mirnyi and a bronze medal in singles, marking a significant milestone in her career.
WTA Tour Finals and Other Achievements
In addition to her Grand Slam and Olympic success, Azarenka has also excelled in other prestigious tournaments. She won the WTA Tour Finals in 2011 and has claimed a total of 21 WTA singles titles and 8 WTA doubles titles throughout her career.
Victoria Azarenka Ranking
Victoria Azarenka, a renowned name in the world of tennis, has made a significant impact on the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) rankings. As of July 2023, she holds the 14th position in the WTA singles rankings. This ranking is a testament to her consistent performance and dedication to the sport.
Azarenka, born in Belarus, has been a prominent figure in women’s tennis for over a decade. Her career-high ranking of No. 1, which she first achieved in 2012, is a reflection of her exceptional talent and competitive spirit. She has won numerous titles, including two Grand Slam singles titles at the Australian Open in 2012 and 2013, which have contributed significantly to her high ranking.
Despite facing various challenges, including injuries and personal issues, Azarenka has always managed to bounce back and maintain a strong position in the rankings. Her resilience and determination are truly inspiring, making her a role model for many aspiring tennis players.
In the current season, Azarenka continues to demonstrate her prowess on the court. Her ranking in the top 20 is a clear indication of her ongoing relevance in the competitive world of tennis. With her powerful baseline game, aggressive return of serve, and strong mental toughness, she remains a formidable opponent for any player.
Personal Life of Victoria Azarenka: An Insight into Her Relationships and Family
Victoria Azarenka, the former World No. 1 tennis player, has made a name for herself in the world of sports with her exceptional skills and dedication. While her professional achievements are well-known, her personal life has also been a subject of interest for many. This section delves into the details of Victoria Azarenka’s dating history, relationships, and family life.
Victoria Azarenka’s Dating History
Azarenka has had a few notable relationships in the past. She was reportedly in a relationship with Sergei Bubka Jr., the son of pole vaulting Olympic and European champion Sergei Bubka, from 2011 to 2012.
Following her relationship with Bubka Jr., Azarenka started dating American music star Redfoo, a member of the music group LMFAO. The pair seemed to enjoy each other’s company, but they mutually decided to end their relationship in 2014.
In 2019, while battling for custody of her son, Azarenka met fellow tennis professional Humberto Lobo Guerra. Despite the criticism she received for dating someone younger than her, Azarenka maintained the relationship for a while before they eventually broke up.
Victoria Azarenka and Billy McKeague
Victoria Azarenka was in a relationship with Billy McKeague, and the couple had a son together. They began dating soon after their first encounter and welcomed their baby boy, Leo, on December 19, 2016. However, their relationship took a turn for the worse, and they ended up parting ways in 2017.
Their separation was followed by a fierce legal battle over the custody of their son, Leo. Azarenka even withdrew from tournaments in 2017 due to the custody dispute. The case was initially decided to be resolved in Belarus, but the California Courts of Appeal overturned this decision in December 2018, stating that the case was within the jurisdiction of the L.A. County Superior Court. Victoria reportedly won the custody battle after protracted court wrangling.
Victoria Azarenka’s Current Relationship Status
As of now, Victoria Azarenka is single and focusing on raising her son, Leo, who is now 6 years old. Despite her past relationships, Azarenka has never been married.
Victoria Azarenka’s Children
Victoria Azarenka is a proud mother to her son, Leo, born from her relationship with Billy McKeague. Leo’s birth was a joyous moment for Azarenka, but it also marked the beginning of a challenging period in her personal life due to the custody battle with McKeague. Despite the difficulties, Azarenka has shown immense strength and dedication as a mother. She often shares moments with her son on her social media, showing the world her loving and nurturing side.
Victoria Azarenka’s Custody Battle: A Mother’s Fight for Her Son
Victoria Azarenka, a name synonymous with power and precision in the world of tennis, has been through a tumultuous journey off the court. The former World No. 1 and two-time Grand Slam winner found herself in the midst of a heated custody battle for her son, Leo. This section delves into the details of this custody battle, shedding light on Azarenka’s fight for her son.
The Beginning of the Custody Battle
Azarenka and her former partner, Billy McKeague, welcomed their son Leo into the world in December 2016. However, their relationship took a turn for the worse, and they split in July 2017. This marked the beginning of a fierce custody battle over their son.
The custody dispute escalated to the point where Azarenka had to make a difficult choice between her career and her son. In 2017, a California judge ruled that neither parent could take the child out of California until an agreement was reached. This ruling posed a significant challenge for Azarenka, who competes globally. As a result, she had to withdraw from several tournaments, including the US Open, the Australian Open, and the ASB Classic in Auckland, as she refused to leave her son behind.
The Legal Proceedings
Azarenka, a citizen of Belarus, argued that the case should be handled in Belarus, where she had previously been awarded primary custody by a Belarusian court. After a protracted legal battle, a California judge ruled in Azarenka’s favor, agreeing that the case did not belong in California or anywhere in the U.S. However, McKeague was given three weeks to appeal the ruling.
The Outcome
Azarenka’s victory in court marked a significant step towards resuming her professional career. The ruling cleared the path for her to travel with her son again, bringing her one step closer to returning to the tennis court.
Despite the victory, Azarenka expressed her desire for McKeague to be involved in their son’s life. She planned to move back to Belarus with Leo but hoped to maintain an amicable co-parenting relationship with McKeague.
FAQs
Who is Victoria Azarenka?
Victoria Azarenka is a renowned Belarusian tennis star, famous for her exceptional skills and achievements on the court. She was the world No. 1 singles player and held the top ranking for a significant period of 51 weeks starting from 30 January 2012.
When and where was Victoria Azarenka born?
Victoria Azarenka was born on 31 July 1989 in Minsk, Belarus.
Who are Victoria Azarenka’s parents?
Victoria Azarenka was born to Alla and Fedor Azarenka. Her mother, Alla, worked in a children’s sports school, and her father, Fedor, worked in a factory.
Does Victoria Azarenka have any siblings?
Yes, Victoria Azarenka has an elder brother named Max Azarenka, who is a significant support system in her career.
What is Victoria Azarenka’s nationality and ethnicity?
Victoria Azarenka holds Belarusian nationality, and her ethnicity is also Belarusian.
How old is Victoria Azarenka as of 2023?
Born in 1989, Victoria Azarenka is 34 years old as of 2023.
What is Victoria Azarenka’s zodiac sign?
Victoria Azarenka was born under the zodiac sign of Leo.
How tall is Victoria Azarenka?
Victoria Azarenka is 6 feet (1.83 meters) tall.
How much does Victoria Azarenka weigh?
Victoria Azarenka weighs approximately 70 kilograms (154 pounds).
What is Victoria Azarenka’s net worth in 2023?
In 2023, Victoria Azarenka’s net worth is estimated to be around $25 million.
When did Victoria Azarenka start her professional career?
Victoria Azarenka started her professional career in 2003.
How many Grand Slam singles titles has Victoria Azarenka won?
Victoria Azarenka has won two Grand Slam singles titles, both at the Australian Open in 2012 and 2013.
What is Victoria Azarenka’s ranking as of July 2023?
As of July 2023, Victoria Azarenka holds the 14th position in the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) singles rankings.
Who has Victoria Azarenka dated in the past?
Victoria Azarenka has had notable relationships with Sergei Bubka Jr., American music star Redfoo, and fellow tennis professional Humberto Lobo Guerra.
Who is Billy McKeague?
Billy McKeague is Victoria Azarenka’s former partner, with whom she had a son, Leo. Their relationship ended in a heated custody battle for their son.
Does Victoria Azarenka have any children?
Yes, Victoria Azarenka has a son named Leo, born in December 2016.
What was the outcome of Victoria Azarenka’s custody battle for her son?
After a protracted legal battle, a California judge ruled in Azarenka’s favor, stating that the case did not belong in California or anywhere in the U.S., effectively giving her primary custody of her son.
Has Victoria Azarenka ever been married?
No, Victoria Azarenka has never been married.
What is Victoria Azarenka’s current relationship status?
As of now, Victoria Azarenka is single and focusing on raising her son, Leo.
How did Victoria Azarenka’s custody battle affect her tennis career?
Due to the custody dispute, Victoria Azarenka had to withdraw from several tournaments, including the US Open, the Australian Open, and the ASB Classic in Auckland, as she refused to leave her son behind. However, after winning the custody battle, she was able to return to the court and resume her professional career.
