Sharapova takes Australian title

Maria Sharapova overcame Ana Ivanovic 7-5 6-3 to win the Australian Open women’s title in Melbourne today and erase the heartbreak of a year ago.

Having lost out to Serena Williams in the final 12 months previously, the fifth seed produced a powerful performance to see off a spirited Ivanovic in straight sets and take the season‘s opening grand slam title.