Henin takes third French Open title
13th June 2006
Justine Henin-Hardenne won her third French Open title and successfully defended the 2005 title after defeating Russian Svetlana Kuznetsova in the women singles final at Roland Garros on Saturday. The Belgian took the victory, beating Kuznetsova in straight sets, 6-4 and 6-4. It’s her fifth Grand Slam title in total.
Kuznetsova started with a break down in the first set. That was enough for Henin-Hardenne to take the first set.
In the second set Henin-Hardenne had to come back from being down one break and managed to win the title in 96 minutes in front of the 15.000 spectators at Court Philippe Chartrier under the hot sun.
“I am delighted to get my third win here. It has been a fantastic tournament, and it is a fantastic feeling to win again,” Henin-Hardenne said after she had shown the Cup Suzanne Lenglen to the crowd for the third time in her career.
“The first one was very emotional, because it was the first Grand Slam I won, and then it was the confirmation last year, and then this year. I cannot find the words to describe it right now. It is too early right now. Maybe I can answer your questions better tomorrow.
“It’s a really special feeling playing here, it is unique, and I love playing here.
“I suffered physically today. I was very tired, and I didn’t sleep well, but I played better on the big points. When I made the break at 3-3 in the second set, that was the turning point. The difference was only a couple of points today. I managed those moments better, even though we might say she was more solid than I was. I play tennis because of these very close situations. This tightness, when you are nervous on crucial points, on break points, that’s what I love,” the 24-year-old Belgian added.
“She played smart. She mixes up her game. She serves pretty well. And of course, I guess her mentality,” Kuznetsova said.
“It’s disappointing for sure, but it is still a final at Roland Garros. I am disappointed I didn’t take my chances, but Justine played a great match,” the Russian said.
Technorati Tags: french open, justine henin hardenne, Roland Garros 2006, roland garros, suzanne lenglen, svetlana kuznetsova