Serena Williams wins the Australian Open and her eighth Grand Slam title. Her championship Saturday was her first in two years, and only her second in a Grand Slam after completing her “Serena Slam” in Australia in 2003, when she won a fourth consecutive major.

After doing a dance and skipping to the side of the court to exchange high-fives with her mother, Oracene Price, Williams told the crowd of 15,000 at Rod Laver Arena about her motivation.

“Most of all I would like to dedicate this win to my sister, who’s not here. Her name is Yetunde. I just love her so much,” she said, her voice cracking. “I’ll try not to get teary-eyed, but I said if I win this it’s going to be for her. So thanks, Tunde.” source

Congratulations Serena, a true Empress indeed!