Switzerland lifted the Hopman Cup for the third time - and first time in 17 years -after defeating Germany in the 2018 Final at Perth Arena.

Roger Federer and Belinda Bencic overcame Alexander Zverev and Angelique Kerber 4-3(3) 4-2 in a decisive mixed doubles encounter to win the title for the first time since 2001, when Federer lifted the trophy alongside Martina Hingis.

"After all these years I can't believe I'm here again," said Federer. "It's absolutely amazing. I've lost count of the years, I'm thrilled to win the Hopman Cup again with Belinda. It's been a pleasure to partner [her] this week.

Bencic, who had won tournaments in Thailand, Taipei and Dubai before arriving in Perth, saw her 18-match winning streak in singles come to an end following a 6-4 6-1 defeat to the in-form Angelique Kerber, but she bounced straight back in the mixed doubles to round off a memorable week alongside Federer.

"Angie was just too strong for me today," Bencic admitted. "I'm so glad we made it in the mixed this time.

"Thanks to Roger for playing with me. It really is a dream come true. I couldn't wish for a better partner. I'll never forget this week, it's been unbelievable."

After dropping the opening set, Federer returned to his consummate best to defeat Alexander Zverev 6-7(4) 6-0 6-2, and the young German was quick to poke fun at the 19-time Grand Slam champion.

Once again Switzerland takes it all," joked Zverev. "I've seen this so many times, Roger relax a little bit, we want to win something as well. It makes us young guys look bad."

The Germans, though, could be proud of their efforts having guided their nation into the final for the first time since 1995.

We had a great week on and off the court," said Kerber. "It's not the result we wished, but congrats to Belinda and Roger. You are a great team and really deserved to win the title."