DOHA, Qatar (AP) — Defending champion Victoria Azarenka stunned Serena Williams 7-6 (6), 2-6, 6-3 to win the Qatar Open on Sunday, earning her 16th title and ending a 10-match losing streak against the American.
Azarenka will give up the No. 1 ranking to the second-ranked Williams on Monday but extended her current winning streak to 14 matches, including her second Australian Open title. More importantly, she may have turned around what has been a one-sided rivalry against Williams. Azarenka had not beaten Williams since 2009 in Miami, and had a 1-11 record against her going into Sunday's final.
Azarenka broke to go up 2-1 when an erratic Williams hit one of her four double-faults, but the American even things out after eight games. Williams then won four straight points in the tiebreaker to lead 6-5, but the Belarusian saved a set point and won it herself with a great return.
Williams dominated the second set with her powerful serve and forehand. Azarenka appeared anxious in the third, falling behind 0-30 but then won the game and jumped to a 3-0. lead. She extended it to 5-2 lead before Williams hit a great crosscourt backhand to make it 5-3 to stay in the match. But serving for the match, Azarenka went up 40-0 and clinched the victory when Williams hit a forehand wide.
"I just wanted to fight and give it my best, give myself every opportunity I can," Azarenka said. "I started with love-30 (in the third) and I was like, 'You have to keep it together. You have to do something.' Serena was on a roll ... so I had to really step up my game. I'm really glad I could turn it around and stay tough."
Azarenka needs to reach the final in Dubai to have a chance at returning to the top spot. If Williams reaches the final next week, Azarenka would need to beat her in the title match to return to No. 1.
Azarenka beats Williams to win Qatar Open
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Azarenka beats Williams to win Qatar Open
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