Williams: Henin can be No 1 again
Serena Williams: Justine Henin can be No 1 again
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Saturday, 30, Jan 2010 12:47
By Lewis Bazley.
Serena Williams has paid tribute to her vanquished opponent Justine Henin after claiming a fifth Australian Open title.
Henin looked odds on to seal a dream return to Grand Slam tennis as she levelled the match with a storming 6-2 win in the second set.
But Williams' power proved crucial and the American sealed her 12th Grand Slam singles title with a 6-3 victory in the third set.
"Billie, we are tied," Williams said after the win, referring to US legend Billie Jean King, who was at the Rod Laver Arena to see Williams equal her haul of major singles tites. "So I've reached my goal."
Having defended her Australian Open title, Williams paid tribute to Henin for having a "fabulous tournament".
"She gave me all I could handle tonight," she added.
Of Henin's return, Williams remarked: "It's good to have her back, it's exciting.
"She can definitely be number one, especially with our ranking system, if she keeps doing well."
Henin may not have been able to claim a title in her first Grand Slam tournament after returning to competitive tennis following her May 2008 retirement, but remained circumspect as she accepted the runners up trophy.
"It's been a very emotional two weeks for me," the Belgian said. "I'd like to congratulate Serena - she's a real champion."