Angelique Kerber stuns Serena, wins Australian Open crown

.@AngeliqueKerber captures @AustralianOpen title–> https://t.co/A4KTDrwhQd #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/zlw7fWePvm

— WTA (@WTA) January 30, 2016

In an unlikely scenario, Angelique Kerber stole the stage and the Australian Open championship from World No.1 and defending champion Serena Williams. Kerber’s performance and eventual 3-set victory 6-3, 4-6, 6-4 propelled her from No.7 to World No.2 and made her the second German woman to win the Aussie Open (Steffi Graf). Ironically, Kerber’s victory temporarily put on hold Williams pursuit of her 22nd Grand Slam, just one shy of tying Graf for most Grand Slams in the Open era. “The first set I played very well.” Kerber said “The second set she was serving much better. The third set every game was really close.” I think I had, of course, less pressure than her maybe. I had nothing to lose, but still I had to lose the match. I knew that I must play the best tennis against her tonight. I was going out there to try to show really that I can play, that I can beat her.” Williams showed great class and the heart of a champion, walking to Kerber’s side of the court to give the newest member of the Grand Slam club a warm congratulatory hug moments after defeat. “I was actually really happy for her.” The World No.1 said. “She’s been around a really long time. We’ve had a number of matches. I’ve beaten her a lot. She played so well today. She had an attitude that I think a lot of people can learn from: just to always stay positive and to never give up.”

Celebrations…@AngeliqueKerber #ausopen pic.twitter.com/ClGXLXtQ8u — Australian Open (@AustralianOpen) January 31, 2016

Your 2016 @AustralianOpen champion @AngeliqueKerber & finalist @SerenaWilliams! #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/dUYdy2v3w5

— WTA (@WTA) January 30, 2016