21-year-old Kvitova out-manoeuvred and out-hit her higher-ranked opponent and came through in one hour and 42 minutes 7-6 (7-3) 6-4 and has moved into the world's top 10 for the first time.

It was a highly contested first set in which both players produced some quality tennis worthy of the occasion. Kvitova broke Azarenka at the first opportunity. Belarusian Azarenka broke back later in the set but when it came to the tie-break Kvitova played better when it mattered and took the first set after winning the last five points of the breaker.

The second saw more breaks of serve but after Azarenka saved one match point in the ninth game, Kvitova confidently served out for victory and added the WTA Mutua Madrid Open title to her other two wins this year.

"It's nice to win the tournament and to be in the top 10 at the same time, but it's just a number. said Kvitova. "I want to improve my game and we'll see - I don't want to be only number 10!"

Azarenka was full of praise for her opponent after the match: "Petra had such a great week and totally deserved to win today. She showed some impressive tennis."

"I had some opportunities and there are a few things I should have done better, but that's how tennis works. Now I'm looking forward to Rome and the other tournaments coming up. I'm taking it day by day and we'll see what happens."