Azarenka unveils secret weapon at US Open

After dismissing Elise Mertens, 6-1, 6-0, to reach the US Open semifinals, Victoria Azarenka revealed her secret weapon: her mom's cooking.

The Belarusian has been one of the few players to opt for private housing along with Milos Raonic, Serena Williams and Novak Djokovic. She's also got her mom on hand to help make the house a home and take care of her three-year-old son Leo.

"She's one of the best cooks I've ever seen in my life," the world No. 27 said. "I've been to Michelin star restaurants so I'm going to give all props to my mom. She's the best."

While players can't enjoy going to restaurants this year due to COVID-19 restrictions, the professionally made cuisine has come to Azarenka without needing to open Uber Eats.

"Sometimes she makes two main courses. It's like a restaurant," Azarenka said. "I'm spoiled that way. My team are spoiled as well. We've been enjoying some home cooked meals, which is something so precious in the bubble life. I definitely have the advantage of that."

The setup is working for her as she's raced into her first Grand Slam semifinal since the 2013 US Open. That year, she'd lose in the final to Serena Williams, who happens to be her opponent on Thursday night.

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Serena owns a 18-4 record over the 31-year-old, but all four of Azarenka's wins have come on hard courts. On Thursday, Serena can expect to see Azarenka's very best, and spectators will hope to see a glimpse of one, or both, of their children watching.

"It's very simple: I like playing against the best," Azarenka said. "That's where you see yourself, your level, the biggest challenge. That's what I'm working hard for, to play on the biggest stages against the best players. There's no one as tough mentally as Serena. I love that challenge."