Serena seals first claycourt title

Serena Williams won the first claycourt title of her career on Sunday when she took revenge on Justine Henin with a hard-fought 7-6, 6-4 victory in Italian Open final.

Williams, who lost to Henin a week ago at the German Open, bounced around the court in delight after sealing her triumph, punching her fist towards her sister Venus and mother Oracene in the stands.

The American received a rousing cheer from the Foro Italico crowd when she addressed them in Italian, thanking them for their support throughout the week.

Williams had to work hard for her win, though, needing six set points to put Henin away in the first set, which took an hour and nine minutes.

Henin saved three set points at 4-5 down and two more in the tiebreaker before a netted backhand from the Belgian finally gave Williams the advantage.

The second set was just as close, with Williams breaking for a 4-3 lead before being pegged back.

The third break of serve in a row decided matters, however, giving Williams the chance to serve for the title.

It was the 14th title of the 20 year-old's career and will boost her confidence ahead of the French Open starting a week on Monday.

Williams has won three tournaments this year having secured hardcourt titles in Scottsdale and Miami.

Her biggest win came at the 1999 U.S. Open, her only Grand Slam success.