Aryna Sabalenka has retained the Australian Open title after beating Zheng Qinwen in Melbourne on Saturday. Belarusian second seed Sabalenka won 6-3 6-2 to claim her second Grand Slam singles trophy without dropping a set.
Sabalenka becomes the first player since countrywoman Victoria Azarenka 11 years ago to claim back-to-back Australian Open titles.
Sabalenka, 25, who became the strong favourite after top seed Iga Swiatek was beaten in the third round, emulated her compatriot Azarenka by completing victory in little over an hour.
“It’s been an amazing couple of weeks and I couldn’t imagine lifting the trophy another time,” said Sabalenka.
“It’s been an amazing couple of weeks. I couldn’t imagine myself lifting this trophy one more time. It’s an unbelievable feeling.
“As always my speech is going to be weird. Team, wow. Thank you so much for being by my side no matter what. I mean, without me you wouldn’t be that good as well.
“I never speak about my family in these speeches but I have to say thank you for everything they’ve done for me. I love you so much, you’re my biggest motivation. I can’t wait to come back.”
Zheng, 21, was playing in her first major final and often looked overawed – by both the occasion and her opponent.
Zheng, who will break into the top 10 on Monday, said after receiving her runners-up plate: “I want to say congrats for Aryna to have such a wonderful match here.
“It’s my first final here and I’m feeling it’s a little bit of a pity but I want to say thanks to all the fans who come here to watch me. I feel I could do better in this match but I want to say thanks to my team who helped me arrive here.
“I really enjoy playing in this Australian Open. It’s an amazing memory for me, I’m sure there’s going to be more and even better in the future.”
