(CNN) -- A tearful Victoria Azarenka retained her Australian Open title and world No. 1 ranking after overcoming crowd favorite Li Na in a dramatic women's final on Saturday. The 23-year-old broke down as she celebrated her second grand slam title, denying her Chinese opponent her second after coming from behind to triumph 4-6 6-4 6-3 and claim the $2 million first prize. The Belorussian went into the match having upset local fans after taking a controversial 10-minute medical break during a key point of her semifinal win over American teen Sloane Stephens, but this time she was forced to wait as Li twice had to receive lengthy treatment.
@highlight
World No. 1 Victoria Azarenka wins Australian Open title for the second year in a row
@highlight
Belorussian beats crowd favorite and 2011 runner-up Li Na 4-6 6-4 6-3 in Melbourne
@highlight
Li needs two medical breaks while final also disrupted by Australia Day fireworks
@highlight
Azarenka holds onto the No. 1 ranking, denying Serena Williams top spot
Li Na
Li
Li Na
Li
Azarenka led 3-0 in the second set, then sixth-ranked @placeholder went over on her ankle after winning the next game.
Li Na
Li
Li Na
Li
It was an inopportune break for @placeholder, who again went over on her ankle and banged her head on the court as she tried to protect her damaged foot.
Serena Williams
Li was unable to maintain momentum and Azarenka broke her serve to lead 3-2 -- the 15th break in just 27 games of an error-strewn match -- and went on to clinch the victory that denied @placeholder a return to the No.