Amelie's turn

It's not a good sign when a tennis player takes more time than usual between change-overs, or take the ball late. It's even more troubling when Justine Henin-Hardenne isn't able to pass the 30% ratio in first serve percentage. These were the first signs coming from the experienced double-French Open champion that all was not well.

This fact, however, should not detract from Mauresmo's joy after she claimed her first major title.

"I've been waiting so long for this and really worked hard for this, it's a really great achievement. I'm probably the proudest woman now," the Frenchwoman said.

The WTA Championship winner played supreme tennis during the first set, and never seemed to choke on key points.

Mauresmo broke Henin-Hardenne's serve twice in the first set, allowing the 23-year-old Belgian only seven points as she raced to a 5-0 lead.

Henin-Hardenne held for the only time in the sixth game, when Mauresmo drilled a forehand just wide down the line. She surrendered the first set in 33 minutes on consecutive forehand errors.

Mauresmo broke serve and then held again to lead 2-0 in the second before Henin-Hardenne called for the trainer.

Henin-Hardenne complained of stomach pain and only played two more points before walking to the net and telling the chair umpire she could not continue.

The 8th seed said she had suffered an upset stomach after doubling the dose of anti-inflammatory tablets she had been taking for a shoulder problem, adding that she had no regrets.

"It's my decision, my choice. I decided to walk on the court because I'm professional, I want to try," said Henin-Hardenne.

"I'm felt so so sick, I couldn't stay on the court any more. It's very frustrating that it ends this way."