Serena Williams wins 2012 Madrid Open title, beats top-ranked Azarenka

Serena Williams simply overpowered top-ranked Victoria Azarenka 6-1, 6-3 on Sunday to win the Madrid Open title. The win assured the 13-time Grand Slam champion of clinching the no. 6 ranking when the world rankings get updated on Monday.

“This is really good. I have been working hard. I had some tough battles and really unfortunate circumstances so I really love this,” Williams said.

Williams served 14 aces in the match and with the win she’s increased her number of wins against Azarenka to seven. Azarenka’s only win against Williams was at the Miami 2009 final where the American was injured.

The Madrid Open title is Williams’ 41st career title and second of the season. She’s so far won her last 13 matches on clay and is now a heavy favorite to win the Roland Garros 2012 title.