Kim Clijsters defeatedLi Na in the final, 3–6, 6–3, 6–3 to win the women's singles tennis title at the2011 Australian Open.[1] It was her firstAustralian Open title and her fourth and lastmajor overall, as well as the 41st and last singles title of her career.
Li was the first Asian player to reach a major singles final, and would go on to win theFrench Open a few months later. This was the first major whereCaroline Wozniacki competed as the world No. 1; she lost to Li in the semifinals, despite having a match point in the second set.
Serena Williams was the two-time reigning champion, but did not participate due to a long-term foot injury.
This marked the last major for two former world No. 1's:Justine Henin andDinara Safina, who both retired due to injury (Henin's elbow and Safina's back).[2]