Trainer Mouratoghu hails Rezai's will to win

NUSA DUA, Bali: Trainer Patrick Mouratoglu watched intently from the stands as Aravane Rezai took part in the biggest final of her career on Sunday.

He only went onto court when her opponent, Marion Bartoli, took an injury timeout. They discussed strategy, but there was no need to implement it, as Bartoli soon retired.

He was in joyous mood in celebrating the victory with Arsalan Rezai, who began coaching his daughter when she was 8 years old.

Mouratoglu said he had known the Rezais for a long time but only began to help them over the past two years.

He did not want to take the credit for Rezai's stunning form

"He is the coach," he said, pointing to Arsalan.

During the post-match media conference, Rezai said she was able to overcome her big-match jitters with her parents and team among the spectators.

Even though Bartoli retired, the top seed was kept on the run for most of the match by Rezai, who saved a setpoint. Mouratoglu said the key to Rezai's excellent play in the final was not only her form, but another important factor.

She wanted to win more than anything.

"Bartoli was playing well, but was not physically *strong*. You see, Aravane became stronger and forced long rallies many times. Bartoli just couldn't keep up physically," he said. - JP/Musthofid