Caroline Wozniacki became the new Australian Open champion after a grueling and thrilling three-set final against Simona Halep. With that victory she picked up her first Grand Slam title and ascended back to the World No.1 spot - and the world hailed her hard work.

Friends and colleagues posted their congratulations on social media, there was even a message from the Danish royal family - and the world's media also hailed her climb.

"Wozniacki is an entirely worthy Australian Open champion. Her professionalism and perspicacity carried her to the win." - Steve Flink, tennis.com

"Good things apparently do come to those who wait and finally, after experiencing just about every other high and low that tennis can produce, Caroline Wozniacki is at last a Grand Slam singles champion. After two crushing disappointments in US Open finals, first nine years ago and then again in 2014, the perpetually smiling Dane, who many insisted was simply too nice and gregarious to become a hard-hearted major winner, has attained her own personal tennis ambition." - Barry Flatman, the Times

"No matter her disappointments, she continued to work hard, always believing in her ability, believing that one day things might fall her way. On Saturday night, as she chased down everything with stunning athleticism, they finally did." - Simon Cambers, the Guardian

"In her 43rd major tournament, Wozniacki climbed to another level. She served faster than at any time in her life, moved like a panther and directed her backhand down the line so precisely that it might have come equipped with a laser guidance system." - Simon Briggs, the Telegraph

"Every one of her strengths was on display in the final: her defensive prowess, her improved serve, her flawless technique. She showed herself to be grittier than many fans had recognized. She had always been able to block every ball back. In this match, she did it with power, and with purpose." - Louisa Thomas, the New Yorker