Serena Williams confirmed as the oldest ever world number one

American returns to the top of the rankings

Victoria Azarenka (right) after beating Serena Williams in Qatar (EPA)

Serena Williams was today officially confirmed as the new world number one, returning to the top spot after almost two-and-a-half years.

The American's win over Petra Kvitova at the Qatar Open in Doha on Friday meant she was sure to overtake Victoria Azarenka to reclaim the number one ranking, having been usurped by Caroline Wozniacki in October 2010.

At 31, she is the oldest player ever to hold the position, eclipsing the previous record set by Chris Evert, who was 30 years and 11 months when she was number one in November 1985.

PA