On Sunday, the tennis world witnessed a rather bizarre incident at the Miami Open involving Victoria Azarenka. During her third-round match against 16-year-old Linda Fruhvirtova, the two-time Grand Slam champion stormed off the court without citing any reason to the umpire. 

Later, the Belarusian released a statement to explain the reason behind her mid-match retirement. While Azarenka’s reaction is understandable considering the global situation at present, initial reactions stated that the gesture was not at all respectable towards her young opponent.

Meanwhile, former tennis player Daniela Hantuchova wants the WTA to do a proper investigation of the incident. 

Hantuchova wants WTA to investigate the Victoria Azarenka incident at Miami Open

In a recent interview, the former Slovak player said, “The most impertinent thing is how she left the field without giving any reason. I think the WTA will have to investigate. For me, the gesture is very strange and totally disrespectful to the public, the referee and the more important than Linda. I think Vika knew that if she played the same way, she would be out of the field very soon. But the way she did it is bad behavior.” 

What’s next for Azarenka?

Azarenka’s match against Linda was disappointing for so many reasons. The Belarusian player was losing terribly as the score was 2-6,0-3 before she decided to walk out of the court. 

Trending

‘RIP’ – Heartbroken Brother of John McEnroe Mourns ESPN Legend’s Tragic Death Who Last Tweeted About Coco Gauff

April 21, 2024 02:43 PM EDT

Serena Williams’ Husband Alexis Ohanian Gushes Over Her Pink Attire as Part of Nike’s Latest Endeavor

April 23, 2024 05:55 PM EDT

Darwin Blanch: How Father’s Relentless Efforts for His Brother Ended up Becoming a Boon for Rafael Nadal’s Opponent

April 24, 2024 06:52 PM EDT

Madrid Open 2024: Ugo Humbert vs Botic Van De Zandschulp; Preview, Head-to-Head, Prediction

April 26, 2024 07:18 AM EDT

Do Darwin Blanch’s Siblings Play Tennis? Everything to Know About the Young American’s Power-Packed Family

April 25, 2024 01:54 PM EDT

Get instantly notified of the hottest Tennis stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

‘Have Nightmares Every Night’ – Elina Svitolina Facing Difficulties in Concentrating on Tennis

The Belarusian’s statement after the match read, “I shouldn’t have gone on the court today, The last few weeks have been extremely stressful in my personal life. Last match took so much out of me, but I wanted to play in front of a great audience as they helped me pull through my first match. I wanted to go out there and try but it was a mistake. I hope to take a break and be able to come back.”

It might not have been easy for Victoria Azarenka to sail through tournaments and even though there is no clarity on why she wanted to take a break from tennis, the Belarusian’s presence will always enrich the WTA tour. Notably, Azarenka also had a similar breakdown during her third round match at Indian Wells against Elena Rybakina.

Watch This Story: Serena Williams vs Naomi Osaka, who is richer?