Venus Williams staged a dramatic fightback to win the final of WTA Bausch & Lomb Championships in Florida.

The American number one seed trailed 2-6 0-4 15-40 before rallying for a 2-6 7-5 7-6 (7/5) victory over Justine Henin in two hours 24 minutes.

The number two seed from Belgium herself saved four match-points in the tie-break before finally losing out.

Williams said: "She was playing so well. She put me in such a defensive position. I tried to think positive the whole time.

"I wanted to look presentable. I didn't want to lose 6-2 6-0. I always believed I could somehow pull it out but it was looking bleak, but eventually the tide turned.

"It's just a reality check. I'm just going to have to practice more (on clay). I'm definitely going to work a little harder."

A disappointed Henin said: "I was playing very well. I think mentally I have to work more but I'm happy because I played 100%.

"I had my chance to win this tournament, but I'm happy because I found my confidence. I went 7-6 in the third set against the number two in the world.

"I was nervous to finish the match, but I'm only 19, so that will come with more matches.

"She's impressive, a tough player and great champion. It's always hard to beat a player in the top 10.

"Great champions can always come back, and she did that today because she's a great champion."