Caroline Wozniacki beat Simona Halep 7-6 (7-2), 3-6, 6-4 in an epic Australian Open final in Melbourne on Saturday.

It was Wozniacki’s first Grand Slam title and Halep’s third loss in a Grand Slam final. The result will also see Wozniacki replace Halep as the women’s world No 1.

Both players required medical attention in hot and humid conditions at the Rod Laver Arena, before Wozniacki prevailed after two hours and 49 minutes.

‘I dreamt of this moment for so many years,’ said the 27-year-old Dane. ‘To be here today is a dream come true, I never cry but today is an emotional moment.’

Wozniacki also acknowledged Halep, who had come close to claiming her first Grand Slam title.

‘Simona, I know that today is a tough day, I’m sorry that I had to win. I’m sure we’ll have many matches in the future. It was an incredible match, you showed incredible fight, and again, I’m sorry.’

Halep said: ‘It’s not easy to talk now but first of all I want to congratulate Caroline, she played amazing … It’s been a great tournament for me. Of course, I’m sad I couldn’t win today but Caroline was better than me.’