US Open WTA Match of the Day: Victoria Azarenka vs. Aryna Sabalenka

Last year’s edition of the Battle of the Belarusians at the US Open, won by Aryna Sabalenka, 3-6, 6-3, 6-4, over Victoria Azarenka, was perhaps the best opening-round match of the tournament. Donning the exact same purple and black Nike kit as her opponent, it wasn’t hard to see who Sabalenka may have molded her game after as a kid. The countrywomen play a strikingly similar brand of tennis, and will bring their ferocity and firepower into Thursday’s second-round clash.

“I think it will be a great matchup,” Azarenka said after her convincing first-round win over Barbara Haas. “Honestly, I would be really excited to have that challenge. We had a really great match last year. It was really high quality. It didn't go my way.”

While Sabalenka struck first, Azarenka’s form has improved drastically since the two last squared off. The Western & Southern Open champion should have confidence on her side, while Sabalenka’s game has been trending in the wrong direction, unable to advance past the second round in her two tournaments after the hiatus.

“I feel like this year it's a great opportunity to kind of see where my level is at versus her level,” Azarenka added. “Yeah, it's going to be a great challenge. She's a great fighter. She's been showing great tennis. I'm really looking forward.”

When two players who push the pedal to the metal face off, first-serve percentage becomes paramount. Both Sabalenka and Azarenka take huge cracks on their returns, and capitalize on second-serve opportunities.

Just like last year it’s safe to expect plenty of jaw-dropping rallies and blistering winners.

In the end, expect the two-time major champion to advance, and avenge last year’s first-round loss.

The Pick: Victoria Azarenka