Serena Williams Captures French Open Title Over Sharapova

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Serena Williams Captures French Open Title Over Sharapova

By Erik Gudris

(June 8, 2012) -- 11 years to the day that Serena Williams won her first French Open title back in 2002, she claimed her second in Paris and her 16th Grand Slam singles championship in the finals of Roland Garros.

In a tough battle with defending champion Maria Sharapova, Williams overcame falling behind an early break in the first set to claim a 4-3 lead. Sharapova would not relent and broke right back for 4-all. But Williams resumed control with a forehand winner to take a 5-4 lead.

Williams soon served out the set 6-4.

Sharapova struggled for most of the match to hold serve due to the unrelenting pressure she faced from Williams' own return game. Williams took an early lead in the second set and soon held her own service games much easier.

Sharapova stayed in touch with Williams and forced her to serve for the championship at 5-4. But on the the strength of three blistering aces, including one at match point, Williams closed out the 6-4, 6-4 victory.

Williams is now the oldest woman at 31 years old to win at Roland Garros and the first top seed to win the women's title since Justine Henin in 2007.

"I never thought I would be playing 11 years later," said Williams to NBC's Mary Carillo when asked about the anniversary of her first title back in 2002. "Never thought I would play past 28. But hey I'm still here."

(Photo Credit: AP)