Clijsters goes all the way, captures U.S Open after win to Dane

Kim Clijsters was the one who came out on top in the final of the U.S Open against No. 9 seed Caroline Wozniacki, as the Belgian captured her second Grand Slam title after beating the Dane in straight sets.

Clijsters was in a so-so form in the first set, being down 2-4 and then 4-5, on Wozniacki's serve. Kim was able to regroup and win the first set, and the second set was much simpler. The final score was 75 63, as Kim hit an unhittable smash on match point and fell on her knees.

"This has been so exciting for me. It wasn't really part of the plan. I just wanted to play these three tournaments and get used to all of the surroundings again. I want to thank the USTA for giving me a wildcard here," Clijsters said to Mary Joe Fernandez during the on-court trophy presentation. "Caroline is such a great fighter. Women's tennis should be proud to have such a great girl playing.

"Coming back here was a great feeling. The support I got helped me keep going and fighting. It really helps. It's a great pleasure to play in front of you guys.

"We tried to plan Jada's nap time a little later so she could be here tonight. It's the greatest feeling in the world, being a mother. I want to spend the next few weeks with her and go through the normal routine. I'm looking forward to going back and living the family life again for a little while."

Clijsters collected her second Grand Slam singles title, having won at this venue in 2005 as well. Having given birth to Jada during her retirement, she is also the first mother since Evonne Goolagong at Wimbledon 29 years ago to win a major. She is the first wildcard to win a major. The longshot tag was designed for Clijsters at the 2009 US Open - but everyone knew she was a threat.

"I wouldn't have made it this far without all of you guys," Wozniacki said. "Kim is such a great girl. I'm so excited she came back. Unfortunately she beat me today, but she played a great match and deserves this trophy."


Sunday, September 13, 2009

Singles - Final
(WC) Kim Clijsters (BEL) d. (9) Caroline Wozniacki (DEN) 75 63