Iga Swiatek successfully defends Porsche Grand Prix title

Back on her favoured clay after a short break to heal a rib problem, the world number one produced a statement week, culminating in a 6-3 6-4 victory over her closest rival, Aryna Sabalenka.

It was a close battle throughout but Swiatek was rock solid in the big moments and saved the only break point she faced.

A break for 5-3 in the opening set put the Pole into the lead and she broke Sabalenka again to start the second before holding confidently to the finish line.

It was a second title of the season for Swiatek, who has seen her lead at the top of the rankings cut, and she said in the on-court ceremony: "I'm so excited. You could see after the match point.

"Congrats Aryna for everything, you've had such an amazing season. I'm really happy that we're so consistent and can play so many amazing matches together because I think fans are enjoying it."

Swiatek held her trophy aloft before driving her real prize, a new Porsche, around the court.

Australian Open champion Sabalenka could not hide her disappointment after losing in the final for a third straight year - she was beaten by Ashleigh Barty in 2021.

After congratulating Swiatek, the Belarusian said: "Can we make a deal that if I make another final I just get an extra car? I really enjoy playing here - not that much right now because I lost in a third final, it hurts. But it's a great tournament. I will keep coming back until I get the car."

Earlier, Carlos Alcaraz beat Dan Evans 6-2 6-2 in the Barcelona Open semi-finals.

The Spanish top seed is still yet to drop a set in the tournament after despatching the British number two in an hour and 21 minutes.

The 19-year-old world number two will face Stefanos Tsitsipas after he beat Italy™s Lorenzo Musetti in three sets, 6-4 5-7 6-3, in the other semi.

The current US Open champion is now eyeing a third title this season to go with his Buenos Aires and Indian Wells victories.