Wimbledon: Title defence was tough - Williams

Venus Williams today admitted defending her Wimbledon title had proved harder than expected.

The 21-year-old American beat Justine Henin 6-1 3-6 6-0 in the final, but was given a real run for her money by the plucky Belgian teenager.

"This year it was a lot harder," said Williams, who gave Henin credit for winning a set in her first Grand Slam final.

"I’ve been in her position before and I didn’t even win a set in my first Grand Slam final (the 1997 US Open final).

"She’s going to be back. I just want to say congratulations.

"She is very good player, Justine is only 19."

Williams’ celebrations were more reserved than last year when she skipped joyously around the court and her father Richard danced on the roof of a television commentary box.

"I couldn’t leap because it was raining and I didn’t want to fall," he explained.

Henin was gracious in defeat, congratulating Williams and promising: "I will come back next year - maybe to win this title

"I was (ranked) 100 in the world a year ago and now I will be number five. I never imagined that."