Azarenka Wins Women's Australian Open Title, Stays No. 1

Victoria Azarenka has won her second Australian Open title. Photo by Fox Sports

Victoria Azarenka defended her Australian Open title and kept hold of the world number one spot with victory over Li Na in the Melbourne final.

The Belarusian, 23, came back from a set down to win 4-6 6-4 6-3 on Rod Laver Arena.

The victory means that Azarenka will maintain top spot and Serena Williams, who lost in the quarterfinals, will become the new No. 2 in the rankings.

In a scrappy match, Azarenka proved the stronger in the closing stages after the Chinese star rolled her ankle twice and hit her head in two heavy falls.

However, she had to overcome the often hostile crowd, while 30-year-old Li carried most of the support throughout the final.

This was largely due to Azarenka's controversial medical timeout in her semi-final against Sloane Stephens.

Azarenka had been accused of gamesmanship, despite later insisting the timeout had been necessary because of breathing difficulties.

Either way, the negative attention she garnered in the build-up only added to the support for the already popular Li.

When the match ended, Azarenka broke down in tears and sobbed into her towel.

"Unfortunately, you have to go through some rough patches to achieve great things," said Azarenka.

"That's what makes it so special for me. I went through that, and I'm still able to kiss that beautiful trophy."

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