Henin wins Belgian tussle

JUSTINE HENIN-HARDENNE fought off three match points to become the first player in nine years to defend the German Open title. She beat fellow Belgian and top seed Kim Clijsters 6-4, 4-6, 7-5 to claim her third event of the year.

The pair, right, warming up for the French Open starting on 26 May, had never faced each other before in the final of a major event. By reaching the final, Clijsters had already done enough to regain the world number two spot she briefly lost to Venus Williams. "The next goal is the French Open, but I just have to stay cool," said Henin-Hardenne. "Last year I was a favourite, too, then I lost in the first round."

"My leg hurt a little, but these are matches I really enjoy. I don't like it when it's easy," said Clijsters.

In Rome, Felix Mantilla pulled off a sensational 7-5, 6-2, 7-6 (10/8) win over Roger Federer to claim his first tennis Masters Series title. Federer had won 11 straight matches coming into the final and was the overwhelming favourite to claim his fourth title of the season. No unseeded player had won in Rome for 40 years but Mantilla's defensive consistency flummoxed his opponent who failed to produce his best tennis. "It's incredible. The biggest win of my career," said Mantilla, far right. "To beat such a strong player as Roger makes it extra special. I've played solid tennis all week and physically I've felt stronger as the tournament has gone on."

"I had my opportunities and wasn't clinical enough but he was a tough opponent and played very well, just as he has done all week," said Federer. "It's a bit disappointing for me as I have been playing consistently well and felt I had a good chance to win here."