Tennis goes far beyond just thrilling matches and heart-pounding game points; it provides a platform where athletes can share personal lives and emotions – especially during offseason when family become the focus. Victoria Azarenka of WTA fame exemplified this sentimental connection this week by writing an emotive birthday wish for Leo Azarenka that highlighted just how strong of an attachment they shared between mother and son.
As Azarenka recovers from shoulder surgery at Guadalajara Open, her focus now turns solely to Leo – her youngest child born into this world by fate at birth and the beginning of an incredible adventure! Azarenka shared this momentous occasion on social media by writing an emotional post for Leo’s eighth birthday celebration and offering images that showed Leo being held and her own mother hugging and loving Leo both deeply; alongside which was included an iconic Polaroid of that momentous occasion as she spoke of their unbreakable bond that exists between mother and son that brings immense love, laughter, joy both ways!
The journey of motherhood for Azarenka began in 2016 with Leo’s birth, a shared experience with her ex-boyfriend Billy McKeague. Following their split after Wimbledon 2017 and a custody battle which Azarenka won, she has frequently shared moments that underline the strength of their mother-son relationship.
In her birthday tribute, Azarenka reflected on how Leo has been her sunshine on gloomy days, her greatest inspiration, and the source of her smiles. She wished him an amazing birthday, deserving of all the happiness, fun, and love in the world, emphasizing her overwhelming love for him.
During the 2024 Qatar Open, Azarenka opened up about the impact of motherhood on her priorities. Once focused solely on her professional achievements, having Leo shifted her goals towards finding a balance between her career and being present for significant moments in her son’s life. This change is even evident in Azarenka’s public expressions of love for her son, showcasing a strong bond that transcends the tennis court.
Victoria Azarenka Shares a Lighter Side of Motherhood
Azarenka and Leo share more than heartfelt tributes – they also include lighter moments that most parents can relate to. She recently posted about attending one of Leo’s hockey games where he seemed uncomfortable showing affection towards his teammates- an all too relatable situation for many parents with growing children. Furthermore, Azarenka posted video footage showing Leo passionately singing “Lucid Dreams” by Juice Wrld; Azarenka made fun of this behavior as evidence that someone was hurtful towards her son; ultimately inquiring who had hurt him most of all before leaving him out!
Fans eager to witness Azarenka’s return are curious to witness her inspiring relationship with son Alexander as it continues to shape both Azarenka’s life and career.