Monica Seles claimed her first title of the year
with victory over Thailand's Tamarine Tanasugarn in the final of the Qatar
Total FinaElf Open.
The American top seed, making her first appearance at the indoor event, had to
fight all the way before claiming a 7-6 (8-6) 6-3 win.
She took a tense first-set tie-break against the fourth seed Tanasugarn before
her extra power eased her away from an in-form opponent.
The Thai was making her second final appearance of 2002 but could not stop
28-year-old Seles claiming the 52nd title of her career.
"It was a hard-fought match and the conditions were very tough as it was very
windy," Seles said.
"Tammy played very well and she brought (out) the best in me. I was lucky to win
the first set."
"I had some chances to break and she had some chances too. I struggled with my
forehand, it was one of those days."
Tanasugarn, 24, said reaching the final had been a great confidence booster.
"I am very happy with the way I played, even though I did not win. Monica is
very tough to play against," she said.
"I had some chances but did not take them. She played better as the match went
on. I was not 100% fit as I was fighting a cold for the last few days.
"Reaching the final here gives me the confidence that I can beat top players."
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