Aryna Sabalenka retains Australian Open title with stunning performance

TOO GOOD: Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus holds the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup aafter defeating Zheng Qinwen of China in the women's singles final at the Australian Open

Aryna Sabalenka completed a ruthless defence of her Australian Open title by beating first-timer Zheng Qinwen in the final.

The world number two lifted her first grand-slam trophy at Melbourne Park 12 months ago and has been untouchable this fortnight.

She did not drop a set in seven matches and defeated China's Zheng 6-3 6-2 to become the first player since countrywoman Victoria Azarenka 11 years ago to claim back-to-back titles here.

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 to play 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."

Sabalenka received the trophy from Evonne Goolagong Cawley on the 50th anniversary of her first singles title here.

Afterwards, she said: "I want to congratulate Qinwen on an incredible couple of weeks. I know how tough it is to lose in the final but you're such an incredible player and you're going to get it.

"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."