Maria Sharapova and Victoria Azarenka will meet in the third round of Indian Wells. The two have not played each other since the 2013 French Open, when Sharapova defeated her in a three-set semifinal.
Azarenka, who leads their head-to-head matches 7-6, beat Sharapova four times in 2012, including the Australian Open final, Indian Wells final, and the U.S. Open semifinals.
“I just think it's a great opportunity to just go out there and play against one of the best players, because in the end of the day that's what I'm looking for,” Azarenka said. “That's what motivates me, to play against one of the best players. We had great matches. She's one of the best players in the history, so it's great to have that opportunity to compete against.”
Sharapova has won five Grand Slam titles throughout her career. “[She’s] been one of the most consistent players on tour, winning Grand Slams,” said Azarenka, who has won two. “There is not that many players on the tour who has multiple Grand Slams, so I think that makes it pretty special.”
Sharapova, who herself made a successful return from shoulder surgery, said Azarenka was making good progress from a foot problem that troubled her in 2014.
“We have had some really good matches in the past, even though we haven't played against each other in a while,” Sharapova said. “She's made a few comebacks. She's already been playing really good tennis. She's made a couple of comebacks last year. I think she tried to come back a couple of times…I think she's ready to be back. I think she took the right amount of time to come back and be ready to play.”