• WTA

Nobody talks about Nadal & Djokovic grunting - Azarenka

ESPN staff
October 14, 2013
Victoria Azarenka made a reference to the men's US Open final © Getty Images
Enlarge

Victoria Azarenka claims men grunt just as loud as women as the world No. 2 continues to be criticised for her deafening noises.

The Belarusian on numerous occasions has been mocked by fans for the way she grunts, but is not the only player to make a rumble on court, with the likes of Maria Sharapova, Francesca Schiavone and Serena Williams all producing loud noises when playing.

But Azarenka has hit back at those who say the female players are the only ones to grunt - and is confused why the likes of Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal are not criticised for doing so as well on the men's circuit.

"In tennis it's weird because everybody keeps complaining that people grunt but if you watch any other sport [they do]," the reigning Australian Open champion said.

"It's the same with the guys' tennis. You watch Nadal and Djokovic. I mean how less intense was that (US Open final)? And nobody talks about it. This doesn't make sense in my head.

"You take each other to the limit of battle and give 100% in every point and when you play in the final of the US Open against a player like Serena you've got to do that because that's what she does and that's how she pushes you."

Download ESPN's new UK sport app, a fresh and powerful new way to follow your favourite UK sports news, scores and video.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd
ESPN staff Close

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices