Aryna Sabalenka saw her two-year reign at the Australian Open end after losing to Madison Keys in the final – and she didn’t take it well.

The World No. 1 demolished Paula Badosa in straight sets, 6-4, 6-2, on Thursday to clinch a third consecutive Australian Open finals berth.

Her racquet smash and swift exit took the focus off the new champion, but she says there was a good reason for it all.

Madison Keys -- using a mix of solid serves, power and defense -- upset two-time defending champion and top seed Aryna Sabalenka 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 to win the Australian Open on Saturday, giving the 29-year-old American her first Grand Slam title in 46 tries.

Aryna Sabalenka cut a frustrated figure during the Australian Open final as she lost in three sets to Madison Keys, before breaking down into tears and leaving the court

Aryna Sabalenka is aiming for a historic three-peat at Melbourne Park. Will Madison Keys stop her with the feel good story of the tournament?

Aryna Sabalenka has been criticised for appearing to pretend urinate on her runner-up trophy at the Australian Open.

Aryna Sabalenka suffered a shock 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 defeat at the hands of Madison Keys, the No 19 seed, in the summit clash.