Victoria Azarenka makes honest admission on difficulties of balancing being a mother and an athlete career

Victoria Azarenka shared that her son accompanying her to the tennis matches is a privilege but balancing mother duties and a professional career gets difficult sometimes. The Belarusian player recently celebrated her son's eighth birthday.

Azarenka and her former boyfriend Billy McKeague welcomed Leonard in 2016. She often posts pictures and videos with her son on social media, be it on the tennis courts or on fun day-outs.

After posting a mixed 2024 season, making it to the Australian Open fourth round and Miami Open semifinals, the 35-year-old shifted her focus on answering fan questions on Instagram. One fan wondered how the two-time Grand Slam champion manages 'mom' duties while playing professionally.

Azarenka revealed that taking her son to watch her play delights her but balancing both becomes a struggle at times.

"I think it's not easy. However, it's also a big privilege for me that I'm able to bring my son to work and he's able to watch me play. Now he has school so ut's a little bit more difficult but also very privileged that I'm able to share that life with him."

She further said:

"But it's definitely not easy, especially physically you kind of sometimes have to push yourself then you still need to have some energy to be a mom."

Azarenka held a career-high rank of No. 1 for 51 weeks, first achieved on January 30, 2012. Winning the Australian Open titles in 2012 and 2013, she became the first Belarusian player male or female to win a major singles.

Victoria Azarenka repertoire also has two Olympic medals, a bronze in the singles and a gold in the doubles at the 2012 London Games. She finished her year among the top 10 in singles from 2009 to 2013.

Victoria Azarenka penned a heartwarming note for her son Leonard on his eighth birthday

Victoria Azarenka at the National Bank Open Montréal - (Source: Getty)

After giving birth to Leonard in 2016, Victoria Azarenka and her former boyfriend split up and ended up in a legal custody battle. Months of the battle made her miss tournaments like the 2017 US Open but she gained custody of her son in 2018.

Eight years with her son, Azarenka reflected on the journey and penned a loving note for his son on his birthday on December 19, 2024.

"Eight years ago, you made me a mommy, and every day since has been the most incredible adventure. Watching you grow into the smart, funny, and brave boy you are fills my heart with pride and joy beyond words...Leo, you make the world brighter just by being you, and I hope your birthday is as amazing as you are. You deserve all the happiness, fun, and love in the world today and always. I love you more than words can say, keep shining."

The mother-son duo, Victoria Azarenka and Leonard, celebrated Christmas at home with their pet dog, days after attending the Florida Panthers hockey match.