Two-time US Open runner-up Victoria Azarenka is refusing to look too far ahead after she made a winner start to her campaign at Flushing Meadows.

Azarenka - a finalist in New York in 2012 and 2013 - swept aside Lucie Hradecka 6-1 6-2 in the opening round on Tuesday.

Former world number one Azarenka, who reached the quarter-finals at Flushing Meadows last year, boasts a 31-12 win-loss record on the WTA Tour this season but the Belarusian is remaining grounded as she prepares to face Yanina Wickmayer in the second round.

"I actually take it day by day really, not even match by match, but really day by day and in the match point by point. It can sound cheesy and stuff, but that's the best possible way for me right now," Azarenka told reporters.

"I kind of put myself in this mindset where time doesn't really exist that much. There is no past or future. I just try to stay really in the present and find the way to enjoy that and improve in that particular moment.

"So not looking ahead. But I feel that I've done a good job preparing myself. I gave myself the best opportunity to play here. You know, I give 100 per cent every day, so that's all I can ask from myself."