Henin-Hardenne claims Adidas International title

By Chris Davies
January 17 2004

Justine Henin-Hardenne claimed her first title of the year after defeating Amelie Mauresmo in the final of the Adidas International, Sydney

Mauresmo the 4th seed at Monday's Australian Open was forced to play 2 matches in one day after her semi-final against Francessca Schiavone was suspended because of the weather.

After finally completing the semi-final win with a tough 6-3, 7-6 (2) victory Mauresmo was then back out on court to face world number win Henin-Hardenne.

The match started off well until the number 1 seed broke the French players serve and wrap up the first set 6-4. Mauresmo does have the power and finese to beat the Belgian and is more physically stronger but today was not able to show her true form as yet again one break of serve in the second set for Henin-Hardenne sealed the match and first Adidas International title.

Mauresmo and Henin-Hardenne are on course to meet in the Semi-Finals at the first Grand Slam of the year but that is a long way off yet and nothing is predictable this year due to so many surprise withdrawals.

Final

(1) Justine Henin-Hardenne (BEL) bt (3) Amelie Mauresmo (FRA)
6-4, 6-4

Semi-Final
(3) Amelie Mauresmo (FRA) bt Francessca Schiavone (ITA)
6-3, 7-6 (7-2)