Players Under the Microscope / Editor / 24 June 2007 /

Justine Henin remains upbeat over her chances for Wimbledon, starting on Monday, after her narrow victory over Amelie Mauresmo at Eastbourne.

The world number one was forced to dig deep to see off the Frenchwoman on Saturday but eventually claimed the title with a 7-5 6-7 (4-7) 7-6 (7-2).

The Belgian ace trailed 4-1 in the first set but was able to take control after making two breaks of serve.

Henin then made another early break in the second set only for Mauresmo to fight back and win in the tie-break to force a decider.

The reigning Wimbledon champion, who beat Henin in three sets in the final at SW19 last year, then seemed set to repeat the dose when she served for the match.

But Henin made a crucial break to force another tie-break, which she breezed through to retain the title.

Henin now feels the win has given her the confidence to finally win the one Grand Slam title that has eluded her.

"It was important for me to come here to Eastbourne," Henin said. "I passed an important test against Amelie.

"It was all very positive, but Wimbledon is different. I hope that I get another chance at the final."

Henin, who takes on Argentine qualifier Jorgelina Cravero in the first-round, is the 3.35 favourite for glory at the All England Club, ahead of Serena Williams at 4.3.

Mauresmo though also remains upbeat about the possibility of defending her Wimbledon crown following her Eastbourne performance after a season so far disrupted by injury.

"I came here not having many matches," she said. "The positive thing about this week was that I was able to get onto the grass and find my rhythm.

"I got to the final and it was close today. I'm disappointed, but I have to stay positive for Wimbledon."

Mauresmo, who meets Jamea Jackson in round one, is currently available at 9.4, with Maria Sharapova also ahead in the market at 7.8.

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