“My mom didn’t give up”: Victoria Azarenka’s son Leo hails Charleston Open 2R win; discloses her prudent “effort is non-negotiable” advice

Leo, the son of Victoria Azarenka, praised his mother’s victory in the third round of the ongoing Credit One Charleston Open. The 7-year-old also shared the wise advice that the former WTA World No. 1 gave to him.

Starting off her WTA 500 tournament as the 12th seed, Azarenka displayed her clinical abilities and ruthlessness in a dominant 6-1, 6-2 victory against Elisabetta Cocciaretto. She capitalized on her break point chances, successfully converting five out of seven opportunities.

Following the match, Azarenka was joined by her 7-year-old son, Leo, for an interview with the Tennis Channel. During their conversation, Leo praised his mother for her exceptional performance against Cocciaretto and commended her for never giving up.

“My mom didn’t give up,”Leo said.

Azarenka continued by inquiring about the pre-game ritual between her and her son. Leo then revealed their shared mantra in his response.

“What do we say before you play and before I play, what do we say to each other?”Azarenka asked Leo.

“Effort is non-negotiable,”Leo answered.

Naomi Osaka Supports Victoria Azarenka’s Advocacy for Maternity Pay in Tennis

Victoria Azarenka (L) and Naomi Osaka (R) during the 2020 US Open women's singles trophy presentation ceremony — Victoria Azarenka (L) and Naomi Osaka (R) during the 2020 US Open women’s singles trophy presentation ceremony

In early 2024, Azarenka emphasized the importance of maternity pay. As a two-time Grand Slam champion, she urged the WTA to implement this benefit, particularly for players who are not ranked in the top 100 of the WTA Tour.

“I have, I’m guessing, more financial security than some players who may be outside the top 100, and maybe have the same desires and ambitions to have a child and continue to do their job,”Azarenka told BBC Sport.

In March of this year, Naomi Osaka, a former WTA World No. 1, echoed Azarenka’s feelings.

“I think it would definitely be life-changing and I feel like having a kid shouldn’t feel like a punishment. For most female athletes, I think there’s a discussion that your career’s going to change dramatically or going to finish because you have a kid, so just appreciating them more and giving more options is something that is very necessary,”Osaka said.

Azarenka’s upcoming opponent in the Round of 16 at the Credit One Charleston Open will be Taylor Townsend, marking the first time the two players will face each other on the WTA Tour. Townsend earned her spot in the Round of 16 by defeating Ekaterina Alexandrova 7-5, 6-2.