Victoria Azarenka in press conference. Australian open 2016

An excited Victoria Azarenka is determined to feed off the “special energy” in Melbourne, but insists she must live in the moment to have any chance of lifting a third Australian Open trophy this January.

However, the 14th seed is focused on her own preparations rather than reflecting on outside interest.

“I always loved Australia. It gives me a special energy. I feel really good here. I love fans here. They're really passionate. Always in a good mood and excited,” said Azarenka.

“I had a pretty good week of practice here. So it definitely helps to come here a little bit early, get used to a little bit of a new conditions (from Brisbane).”