BAGEL: Ashleigh Barty Trounces Defending Champion Victoria Azarenka at Cincinnati Open 2021

Ashleigh Barty demolished defending champion Victoria Azarenka in the third round at the Cincinnati Open. The Aussie beat the Belarusian 6-0, 6-2 in a game that lasted a little over an hour. The World No.1 stomped her way towards victory and booked a place in the quarterfinal.

Besides a comprehensive victory, Barty also got a bagel over the Belarusian. Her performance was nothing short of a champion’s victory.

Barty on a roll #CincyTennispic.twitter.com/UKHRfgLx1H

— Western & Southern Open (@CincyTennis) August 19, 2021

Ashleigh Barty vs Victoria Azarenka: Set 1

A strong statement of intent from the 2021 Wimbledon Champion, Barty completed a bagel over Azarenka. The defending champion hardly got a chance to convert a service or a point against the Aussie.

With three aces in the first set, Barty converted three of the five break points she received. She completely dominated the Belarusian and hardly broke a sweat. A strong forehand drive and constant fast paced serves ensured her of an easy win. Barty thrashed Azarenka 6-0 in the opening set.

Aug 18, 2021; Mason, OH, USA; Ashleigh Barty (AUS) returns a shot against Heather Watson (GBR) during the Western and Southern Open tennis tournament at Lindner Family Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

Barty vs Azarenka: Set 2

The second set started in similar fashion with Barty completely dominating her opponent. Moreover, she took an early 4-0 lead to establish her authority in the match. It was no shock seeing the Aussie play with such grace and control. However, it was sad to see the defending champion bow out in the Round of 16.

Azarenka barely managed to get any points against the number one seed. The World No.1 seemed to be avenging her first round defeat at the Olympics in Cincinnati over Azarenka. However, Azarenka did manage to win the fifth game and start her comeback. Her single game victory was more of a consolation win for her.

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Aug 12, 2021; Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Victoria Azarenka of Belarus hits a shot against Maria Sakkari of Greece (not pictured) during third round play at Stade IGA. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports

Asheligh Barty will be aiming for a strong finish at Cincinnati. After a brilliant Wimbledon Championship in July, her eyes will be on the US Open later this month. However, does Barty have it in her to clinch the final Grand Slam event of the year?

Read More: “Stuck Around and Found Her Groove”: Andy Roddick Praises Naomi Osaka After her Comprehensive Win Over Coco Gauff at Cincinnati Open 2021

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