http://www.henin-hardenne.be/bin/index.asp?lang=en New World #1 Speaks... 12/11/2006: On Saturday afternoon in Madrid Justine was crowned world #1 by defeating Maria Sharapova in the semi-finals at the Sony Ericsson WTA Championships 6-2 7-6 (7-5). Pure self conviction, and zen focus gave Justine the crown. The Belgian heroine spoke to the media after her win with a warm smile, nods, and glances. Justine on the SF match against Maria "I'm very happy, it was a good match, I had alot of motivation. I was aggressive, I went to the net, and took opportunities. I was only a little nervous toward the end, but very satisfied with the way in which I play." The joy of being #1 again "It's going to be me and I'm very happy about that. It's not easy to get to the finals of all four Grand Slams, and that's what I did. I've been very consistent, and I'm now in the final again. 2006 is almost done, and when I look back, I see only good things, even when I think about my tough matches in the Grand Slam finals. It's probably the best season of my career; I'll enjoy it in the next two months. It's a very different feeling. At that time(2003) it was all new. Now I know just how hard it is to achieve. Since 2003 I've had a lot of injuries and I know how hard you have to work. That's why I'm savouring it more today, or tomorrow I should say, because there is still a match to win." Pre-tournament and early morning SF jitters? "What I've done here is more than I hoped for. If you could have seen me two weeks ago I was full of self doubt. It was inconceivable for me to be here. This morning I had a terrible warm-up I was hitting the ball really hard to relieve my stress. It worked because I felt a sense of calm before going on court. Tactically it was almost perfect. I respected the instructions of Carlos , I sliced, and even if my slices were not always exceptional, there was change in my play. I was able to serve and volley, vary the pace, and put pressure, yes that's what I did. From the first point of the match I went forwards. I felt a bit nervous, but I seized opportunities." A full 2006 schedule played "I was the most consistent player. Of the 13 tournaments I competed in this year I reached the final in ten. And it's not easy to reach the finals of four Grand Slams. I feel really proud to have been so solid. It's more the regularity of this year that has made me most proud. I managed big moments better than I did in the past." The 2006 Sony Ericsson Championships season finale will take place today at 16:00 hrs (CET Spain). Check your local broadcast listings for specific air times, and dates. ALLEZ JUSTINE! --

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