Serena Williams wins historic Australian Open title after beating sister Venus in Melbourne final
Younger sibling prevails 6-4, 6-4 at Melbourne Park to claim Open-era-record 23rd grand slam title on Saturday
Serena Williams rewrote history on Saturday to surpass Steffi Graf and capture a record 23rd grand slam title as well as the world number one ranking by beating her sister Venus in the Australian Open final.
The dominant American swept past her greatest rival 6-4, 6-4 on Rod Laver Arena for her seventh Melbourne Park crown to finally clinch the record for Open-era major titles, nearly 18 years after winning her first.
The 35-year-old, who equalled Graf’s mark of 22 at Wimbledon last year, now stands just one behind the all-time 24 won by Margaret Court, who was in the president’s box to witness Williams’ feat.
Her astonishing achievement also means she again becomes the world’s top-ranked player, ending the brief stay of Angelique Kerber who knocked Williams off the top after three-and-half years in September last year.
SHE’S DONE IT! No. 23@serenawilliams is your #AusOpen 2017 women’s singles champion. pic.twitter.com/LC6fpWi3Ik— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 28, 2017
“This was a tough one – I really would like to take this moment to congratulate Venus,” Serena said.