Serena Williams wins her fifth US Open

WORLD No.1 Serena Williams has won her fifth US Open title, defeating second-ranked Victoria Azarenka 7-5 6-7 (6-8) 6-1 to capture her 17th career grand slam singles crown.

With her second title in a row, the 31-year-old American became the oldest open-era women's winner in US Open history, 293 days older than Australian Margaret Smith Court when she set the prior mark in 1973.

Williams won $3.94 million, including a $1.09 million bonus for her success in US Open tuneup events.

She is the first top-seeded champion since Justine Henin in 2007 and the first to defend the women's crown since Kim Clijsters in 2010.

Serena Williams jumps for joy after securing her fifth US Open singles title. Source: Getty Images

Williams won a rematch of last year's US Open final that was assured of giving her and Azarenka a combined total of six of the eight major titles from the past two years.

Williams improved to 13-3 in their rivalry but two-time Australian Open champion Azarenka had won two of the previous three, most recently in last month's Cincinnati final.

"Victoria you played unbelievable,'' Williams said.

"What a great match and a great person. It's an honour to play against you."

"Vika is such a great opponent and such a great fighter. That's why she has won multiple grand slam titles. It was never over until match point.''

Serena Williams celebrates victory. Source: Getty Images

Azarenka admitted Williams was the better player.

"It's a tough loss but being in the final against the best player, who deserves the win, it's incredible,'' Azarenka said.

"I gave it everything I had. I fought hard but well deserved. Congratulations Serena."