Azarenka Faces Rising Star Ngounoue at BNP Paribas Open

INDIAN WELLS, California — Two-time Indian Wells champion Victoria Azarenka will meet 18-year-old American Clervie Ngounoue in the first round of the BNP Paribas Open on March 6, 2025. This match signals a battle of experience versus youth, as Azarenka, 35, aims for a comeback in a season that has thus far been disappointing.

Azarenka has struggled early this year, winning only two of her six matches in 2025, including a first-round exit at the Dubai Tennis Championships where she lost to Iga Swiatek. In contrast, Ngounoue is enjoying a strong start to her professional career, entering the tournament with a 15-3 record and fresh off a successful qualifying round.

“Every match is a new opportunity,” Azarenka said in a recent interview. “I know I need to treat this one seriously; Clervie is young but she’s already proven herself on the circuit.” Azarenka’s last victory came against Anhelina Kalinina, where she had to fight back from a set down to win.

On the other side, Ngounoue is fueled by momentum, having won seven consecutive matches including a title in the ITF circuit. She overcame significant odds to qualify at Indian Wells, notably defeating Rebecca Marino and Sonay Kartal. “I feel confident and excited to face someone like Victoria,” Ngounoue stated. “It’s a huge moment for me.”

Their match-up is particularly interesting because the head-to-head record stands at 0-0; they have never played against each other. The stakes are high—whoever wins advances to face eighth seed Zheng Qinwen in the second round.

Azarenka will need to minimize her errors, especially with her serve. During her last tournament, she won just 60.2% of her points on her first serve and committed 15 double faults. “I need to be sharp. I can’t afford to drop serve,” Azarenka noted.

Meanwhile, Ngounoue showcased impressive serving stats during the qualifiers, winning approximately 67.3% of her first serve points, emphasizing her aggressive style. “I’ll definitely have to bring my best game; she has so much experience,” Ngounoue acknowledged.

As the first-round matches kick off, all eyes will be on this encounter as it embodies the mix of past prowess and emerging talent, setting the stage for an exciting rivalry. Fans eagerly anticipate what promises to be a vibrant clash at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden.