Former Australian Open champion Azarenka reaches semifinals in Melbourne

By Can Erozden

ANKARA (AA) - Victoria Azarenka, a former two-time Australian Open champion in women's singles, marched to the semifinals in Melbourne after beating US third-seed Jessica Pegula on Tuesday.

In the quarterfinal match at the Rod Laver Arena, Azarenka beat her 28-year-old opponent Pegula 6-4, 6-1 to progress in the 2023 Australian Open.

Azarenka, 33, is now seeking her third Australian Open title as she was victorious in Melbourne twice in the previous decade (2012 and 2013).

Belarusian national Azarenka, who has been competing under a neutral flag due to Russia's war on Ukraine, will play against 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina in the semifinals that will kick off Thursday.

The 2023 Australian Open, the first Grand Slam of the year, will end on Sunday, but the women's singles final will be held Saturday.