Australian Open champion Victoria Azarenka believes women's tennis is in for a fascinating 12 months as a new generation challenges the supremacy of the established stars.

Azarenka became the fifth different grand slam winner in a row when she beat Maria Sharapova 6-3, 6-0 on Saturday. It was the 22-year-old Belarusian's first triumph at a major championships and will put her at the top of the women's rankings on Monday.

"I think it's a great thing for women's tennis," Azarenka said. "We have a good rivalry, I would say.

"With Petra (Kvitova) we had amazing matches. Unfortunately I haven't beaten her. But with Maria playing really well now, you know, Serena (Williams) is back, Kim (Clijsters), I think it's great for women's tennis.

"With Li Na winning a grand slam, Sam Stosur winning a grand slam, I think it's a great competition and we can really look forward for the women's game."