What started as a lop-sided women's singles final between the world number one and fellow Belgian Kim Clijsters reached a dramatic climax at Melbourne Park.

Clijsters, yet to claim a major title despite meeting Henin-Hardenne in three of the last four Grand Slam finals, twice fought back before the world number one finally served out to win.

"I was very emotional, I thought I couldn't close the match," said Henin-Hardenne, who also holds the French and US Open titles.

"It was really emotional. We were nervous, the both of us. It probably wasn't a good match of tennis."

"At the end the crowd gave a lot of support to Kim and it wasn't easy," said Henin-Hardenne.

"I just tried to stay focused on every point and approach in a positive way. It wasn't easy at all, the game to go to 5-3 was really close.

"I have three Grand Slams and I can't even realise it yet.

"I want to win the four grand slams. It's going to be a goal if not this year, then in coming years," she said, adding that she needed to improve her grass court game before she could expect to win Wimbledon.

Henin-Hardenne credited her success to the extra physical work she has been doing since last year.

"I'm not afraid any more. Sometimes I'm afraid of myself because I need to be confident," Henin-Hardenne said.

"Being stronger physically has helped me being stronger in my head."