Fans Select Serena Williams vs Victoria Azarenka US Open 2020 Semifinal as the Best Match of the Year

The unforeseen 2020 year brought us some spectacular competitions in tennis. This fine collection of classic matches competed with one other to win the Fan’s Choice Award. Among the women’s tournaments, the battle between Victoria Azarenka and Serena Williams at the 2020 US Open semifinals topped the list.

Former World No. 1’s have played against each other for more than a decade. In their 23 head-to-head matches, the 39 years-old American leads the tally 18 to 5. However, the 31 years-old Belarusian’s fifth win against Serena became one of the biggest tennis events of the tour. Azarenka came back from a set down and won 1-6, 6-3, 6-3.

Victoria and Serena took 90+ minutes to decide a winner

Before 2020, the duo met each other 3 times at the Flushing Meadows in New York – including two finals. Serena won all three encounters before losing to Azarenka’s powerful hold in the last two sets this year. Nevertheless, their fierce competing attitude and compelling point drawing strategies made it the best match for tennis fans.

In their 90+ minute confrontation, Williams won 78 points and 12 games while the winner Azarenka bagged 81 points and 13 games. The match, however, never left its excitement as the two gave their best to every point. Watch the highlights of the Best Women’s Match of 2020 season.

The two-time Grand Slam winner then lost her third US Open final against Japanese Naomi Osaka. Interestingly, World No. 3 was defeated with the same scoreline 1-6, 6-3, 6-3. This accounted for Naomi’s second major title in New York and third overall.

Next for Serena Williams, Victoria Azarenka: 2021 Australian Open

Ever since the 2020 season has ended, the world of tennis is excited about the 2021 Australian Open. And, even though the major tournament is covered with uncertainties, top players are ready to play at the beautiful Melbourne Park. Serena and Azarenka both will be in attendance to win their next Grand Slam.

The pair have met at the Australian Open three times where the American conquered them all. They last met at the event in 2010; Serena won 4-6, 7-6(4), 6-2. Both the former best player in tennis ranks will compete from outside the Top 10; American is 11, Belarusian is 13.

Plus, the 23 times Grand Slam winner has won her 7 titles in Melbourne Park. American’s rival Azarenka has won all her major titles in Australia. What will 2021 add to their long-term tennis rivalry?

Also Read: “Don’t Know if That Is a Path for Me”: Johanna Konta on Following Victoria Azarenka and Others’ Footsteps