Azarenka routs Sharapova in Aussie final

(AP Photo/Rick Rycroft)

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) Victoria Azarenka started celebrating, then suddenly did a double-take to ask her coach, "What happened?"

The answer: She had just produced one of the most lopsided Australian Open final victories to capture a Grand Slam title and the No. 1 ranking for the first time.

Azarenka routed three-time Grand Slam winner Maria Sharapova 6-3, 6-0 in 1 hour, 22 minutes on Saturday night, winning 12 of the last 13 games after dropping her first service game and falling behind 2-0.

Wade has 28 in return, Heat top Knicks

MIAMI (AP) The New York Knicks, they were all about the 3's. The Miami Heat, they welcomed back No. 3.

Advantage, Heat. (MORE)

Selig: Playoffs likely to expand in 2012

NEW YORK (AP) Commissioner Bud Selig expects baseball to expand its playoffs this season.

Players and owners have already agreed to add an additional wild-card team in each league, but are still deciding whether it would take effect this year or in 2013. Selig said there are scheduling issues to be worked out - once they are, the new 10-team format would begin with a one-game playoff. (MORE)

Tiger Woods shares lead in Abu Dhabi

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (AP) Tiger Woods shot a 6-under 66 Saturday for a share of the lead after the third round at the Abu Dhabi Championship.

The 14-time major winner played a consistent round to move to 11 under for the tournament. (MORE)

Manning, Irsay say no hard feelings

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) Peyton Manning and Colts owner Jim Irsay insist they are just fine after a week filled with complaints and comments suggesting a rift had developed following one of the most miserable seasons in team history.

"We would like to dispel any misperception that there might be any hard feelings between us," the two said Friday in a statement issued by the team. "Since 1998, we have enjoyed a great relationship, based upon mutual respect and trust. We have always been able to talk and address matters we've faced over the years, not just as owner and player, but as friends. (MORE)

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