Victoria Azarenka says exploitation of female players happens ‘right and left’

• Former No 1 has called on the sport to improve safeguarding
• Azarenka applauds Fiona Ferro for speaking out about abuse

Victoria Azarenka has said that exploitation of female players happens right and left" in professional tennis and that the sport should ensure that safeguarding issues are at the forefront of its concerns.

It's a very sensitive subject, because you won't hear those stories unless players come out and tell those stories. It happens right and left on the tour, which is unfortunate," said Azarenka in her post-match press conference after reaching the US Open fourth round on Sunday. Our job is to be better at safeguarding. As player council, it's almost like No 1 subject, to us. Because we see those vulnerable young ladies that getting taken advantage of in different situation."