Flash back to the end of 2015, when Victoria Azarenka was ranked No. 22. This month, she arrived in Miami fresh off her Indian Wells victory back inside the top 10. Winning the Indian Wells title propelled her from No. 15 to No. 8. I spoke with Vika after her victory over qualifier Magda Linette of Poland, and I attended successive pressers through later rounds.

As of March 31, Azarenka has earned a spot in the Miami semifinals. Her journey has carried her past the following opponents:  Monica Puig, Linette, No. 4 Garbine Muguruza and No. 24 Johanna Konta. In press, she spoke about Johanna’s game, stating despite her ranking the Brit is playing top-10 tennis.

Australian Open champion Angelique Kerber is in her path this evening as they vie for a berth in the final. So far, Azarenka’s stats in 2016 are impressive. She has won 83% of services games played this year, and she has saved 68 of 79 break points faced.

Lessons Learned & Gratitude

When asked about the keys to her success, Azarenka shared that tennis is perhaps more fun now because she infuses fun into everything she does, including training, match play, and even travel. She is looking forward to a trip to the Rio Olympics, a place she has dreamed of visiting. Another aspect of the experience is that she is no longer chasing anyone but instead is working to improve every aspect of her game.

Vika has been open about her return to the game and feelings of gratitude for the opportunity. I asked if during her time away there was a point when things just clicked, concerning that outlook, but she responded that it was and is a process that she must work at every day.

She spoke of lessons learned and how outside of practice court time she worked very hard. Azarenka credits the experience of returning from injury as being the catalyst helping her transition to another level, one where she is constantly motivated to improve. Vika now trusts the process, which gives her confidence to take risks.

Sitting before me was a peaceful and confident young woman. I asked her to look back to No. 1 Victoria Azarenka in 2012 and to describe how she is different today. She revealed that back then she was more isolated.  She described that phase as having an inward focus, and she stayed in her bubble. While she observed that the approach worked for her then, today she is more open and has a broad perspective on life. Her focus is outward rather than inward.

Eye on the Prize

We spoke about the addition of Sascha Bajin to her team. Sascha is Serena Williams’ former hitting partner, and Serena had once said Sascha was like having a brother. I asked Victoria how she describes their relationship. She was direct in stating that it is an absolutely professional relationship and that each member of her team has a very specific, structured role. It is worth noting that she is coached by Belgian Wim Fissette, who has already made a significant impact on the tour. His former protégés are Grand Slam champion Kim Clijsters, former Wimbledon finalist Sabine Lisicki, and former No. 2 Simona Halep. Vika is apparently a strategic recruiter as well.

Vika views her team as family, stating they are close. When asked about what she has learned working with Sascha, she said there is no specific “Serena strategy.” The plan is to improve all aspects of her game.

At one stage in this tournament, she was up a set and running away with the second set against opponent Magda Linette. I asked later about the risk of being inclined to take her foot off the gas. She said she knows to never underestimate anyone. Anyone is capable of fighting and coming back. She knows she must seize each opportunity to close each game with intensity, no matter the score.

Azarenka reiterated her Indian Wells trophy ceremony comments concerning Serena, her respect and appreciation for Serena’s influence on the game, and how Serena’s example has pushed her to work harder. She later acknowledged Serena as the greatest women’s player of all time.

The Importance of Belief

Vika shared her belief that every time she steps on the court, she believes she can win. She comprehends the vital nature of self-belief and the link to success. Without it, there is no reason to step on court, since you have already lost. The only doubt Vika revealed was related to her injury. While she never doubted her abilities, at times she felt uncertain about her health.

As Azarenka awaited the Miami semifinal, she appeared poised, calm, motivated, and happy. She had a complete mental, strategic, and physical plan. Perhaps more importantly, she appeared invested in becoming the best version of herself. This goal has already reaped rewards with 2016 titles at Indian Wells and Brisbane, as well as a quarterfinal result at the Australian Open, where she lost to eventual champion Kerber.

Vika is navigating a map to a bright future. While she is earning accolades and titles as a competitor, she is equally impressive as a person because of her ability to enjoy the ride.

Follow the journey of team Vika on Twitter:

Wim Fissette @wimfissette

Sascha Bajin @BigSascha

Victoria Azarenka @vika7