Victoria Azarenka claims Qatar Open title

Victoria Azarenka has won the Qatar Open with a three-set victory over newly-crowned world number one Serena Williams.

The Belarusian, who will move down to second place in the rankings on Monday due to Williams's progress in Doha, clinched the title 7-6(6) 2-6 6-3.

"I had to really step up my game and I'm glad that I could turn it around, stay tough and focused," said the two-time Grand Slam champion.

The triumph was Azarenka's second in 12 meetings with Williams.