Azarenka To Miss Fed Cup Final Against United States

November 7, 2017 | By Long Island Tennis Magazine Staff
Victoria_Azarenka (8)

 

Victoria Azarenka, the greatest tennis player in Belarus’ history, will not compete in the nation’s Fed Cup Final against the United States this weekend in Minsk.

“It’s a pity but we just can’t change anything right now,” said Belarus captain Eduard Dubrov last week.

Azarenka has not played since Wimbledon in July as a custody battle over her son Leo has kept her in California in recent months.

“It is heart-breaking for me to not have a chance to play and help Belarus in the final, but unfortunately, my current custody situation is keeping me in California,” Azarenka wrote in a statement on Tuesday. “Even though I will not be in Minsk for the final, my heart is always with my country and my team and I will cheer for them from afar.”

Belarus defeated Switzerland in the semifinals earlier this year, and the squad will once again turn to 19-year old Aryna Sabalenka to lead them this weekend.

The United States, who beat Czech Republic to book its spot in the final, have selected Sloane Stephens, Coco Vandeweghe, Shelby Rogers and Alison Riske for its roster in the final. 


Long Island Tennis Magazine Staff
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