Players stunned as crowd 'disturbance' halts play

Aryna Sabalenka has emerged victorious in the Australian Open final for a second-straight year, defeating Zheng Qinwen in straight-sets on Saturday night at Rod Laver Arena.

The match wasn’t without some controversy however, with a spectator ejected from the building after an untimely disturbance.

Mid-way during the second set, the member of the crowd began to yell out “free Palestine” prior to Zheng’s serve, with the official quickly bringing a halt to proceedings.

The issue was resolved within a minute as both women took a quick breather courtside.

A spectator is ejected during the Australian Open women’s final.

“There’s just been a disturbance behind the umpire,” Sam Smith confirmed on Nine’s coverage.

“Security have moved very quickly over there just to contain it. The staff here at Rod Laver Arena are moving very fast.

“Don’t upset these Rod Laver tennis fans, I tell you – they want to see this final. That was swift action.”

Fans applauded once the spectator was taken out of the venue, with Sabalenka continuing to dominate her opponent en route to a clinical 6-3, 6-2 triumph to secure her second grand slam triumph.