Sabalenka savours second straight Australian Open title after crushing win

Aryna Sabalenka paid tribute to her family after sealing back-to-back Australian Open triumphs. 

The Belarussian world No2 blew away Qinwen Zheng 6-3 6-2, meaning she did not drop a set all tournament

Sabalenka, 25, is the first player to claim consecutive titles Down Under since countrywoman Victoria Azarenka 11 years ago.

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."

Zheng, 21, will break into the top 10 on Monday after an impressive tournament and took defeat in her stride.

She said: "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."