It has proven to be a case of third time lucky for Caroline Wozniacki after she claimed her first major title by winning the Australian Open with victory over Simona Halep in a pulsating championship decider on Rod Laver Arena.
Wozniacki, who has been US Open runner-up twice (2009 and 2014), achieved her major breakthrough by beating Halep 7-6 (7-2), 3-6, 6-4 in a punishing final contested amid stifling heat and across two hours and 50 minutes.
The triumph also gave the Dane the world number one ranking.
Halep, who Wozniacki dethroned as the top-ranked women's player, has now lost all three of her appearances in the final of a major.
Wozniacki showed her emotion as she explained how much winning the Australian Open had meant during the post-match presentation.
"I've dreamt of this moment for so many years," she said.
"To be here today is a dream come true. My voice is shaking. I never cry. Today is a very emotional moment."
Wozniacki gave a special mention to her father Piotr, who had coached her since she was seven years old.
"You've coached me from the start," Wozniacki said.
"We've been through ups and downs but you stood by my side every step of the way. So thank you."
More to come.
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