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Victoria Azarenka moves a step closer to third Australian Open title

Xinhua, January 25, 2016 Adjust font size:

Two-time Australian Open champion Victoria Azarenka continued to roll towards her third title, after she disposed of Czech player Barbora Strycova in straight sets, 6-2, 6-4, on Monday.

The Belorussian continued her fine start to 2016, sweeping the world No. 48 off center court in just one hour and 26 minutes, and after the match said she felt a little deja vu - Azarenka has eliminated Strycova from the Open for the third year in a row.

"Hopefully next year we will play quarters," Azarenka laughed, "She's so tough, but I played smart and took my opportunities."

"I feel really happy. I think I'm enjoying myself on the court and it helps me be in good shape physically.

"I'm happy I kept my focus and stayed composed."

Azarenka's half of the draw has opened up considerably since No. 2 seed Simona Halep, No. 3 seed Garbine Muguruza, No. 6 seed Petra Kvitova and No. 8 seed Venus Williams fell earlier in the tournament, but the No. 14 seed refused to speculate on adding a third Australian Open crown to her trophy cabinet.

Despite the stronger competition being in the other half of the draw - with Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova and Agnieszka Radwanska still alive, Azarenka said she does have a battle on her hands when she faces seventh seed Angelique Kerber in the quartefinals.

"We always have such amazing battles, she's a fighter," Azarenka said of the left-handed Kerber.

The Belorussian will face off with Angelique Kerber on Wednesday. Endit