Henin praises 'amazing' Swiss ace
DOHA: Belgian World No 2 Justine Henin on Monday paid a glowing tribute to Swiss maestro Roger Federer, calling him an "amazing human being".
Henin, who is in Doha for the $1.34 million Qatar Open, was responding to a question whether she has of late come across any young player with the potential to match the world's top ranked player.
"Federer is a unique player, a genius," said Henin, who will be playing in only her third tournament since the break-up of her marriage.
"I love watching him play. He is an amazing human being and has amazing human qualities.
"What makes him different is that he remains down to earth and simple. That's a lesson for everyone."
Henin, who is aiming to win back-to-back titles in the Gulf after her fourth title triumph in Dubai on Saturday, said she was pretty pleased with her form this season.
"I played some good tennis, my game is at a good level," said the Belgian, who defeated Amelie Maruesmo for the Dubai title.
"It's important for me to keep fighting," she said referring to her prospects this year, especially at Wimbledon, the only grand slam trophy missing from her achievements.
"We are only in February and there are several important things before Wimbledon, but it's definitely one of my goals."
Henin also said she was keen to defend her Olympic gold medal in Beijing next year.
"It's one of my goals for sure," she said. "It was certainly my best human experience playing in the Olympics in Athens. Living in the Olympic Village with so many athletes belonging to different countries was simply amazing."
AFP
(China Daily 02/28/2007 page24)
