Djokovic inspiring Australian Open hopeful Azarenka

Omnisports

January 19, 2016 11:27 AM

As she bids to add a third Australian Open crown to her collection, Victoria Azarenka said she is looking to mirror the on-court movement of Novak Djokovic.

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As she bids to add a third Australian Open crown to her collection, Victoria Azarenka said she is looking to mirror the on-court movement of men's world number one Novak Djokovic.

Azarenka embarrassed Belgian Alison Van Uytvanck 6-0 6-0 in less than an hour in her first-round match at the Australian Open on Tuesday.

The former world number one looks to be nearing her best following an injury-ravaged season in 2014, after claiming the Brisbane International earlier this month.

Azarenka was asked if her game was back to its best and the Belarusian star pointed to Djokovic as inspiration, with the reigning men's Australian Open champion renowned for his ability to cover so much ground on court, both offensively and defensively.

"I really want to have that as my goal. I'm still reaching for stuff," the 14th seed told reporters.

"I mean, what perfect movement for me is looking at Djokovic. I really love to see the way he moves, how fluid he is, how efficient he is, the transition he does.

"For me, that's kind of the goal."

Azarenka was a class above against Van Uytvanck, who was on the receiving end of a double-bagel, as the two-time Australian Open champion gave up just five points on her own serve.

"I think I served really well today. I was very consistent with it. I did good placement. My return was good, but I think my return is, you know, quite a big weapon. So I'm happy with that," Azarenka said.

"But overall I think I played a really good match. I was patient when I needed. I was aggressive when I needed. When I needed to change pace or, you know, get that extra shot in, I did that.

"There is not much to complain. I just hope to stay focused and keep it up and keep working for the next match."

Omnisports

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