Mauresmo overpowers Pierce in Paris

Top-seeded Amelie Mauresmo overpowered compatriot Mary Pierce 6-1 7-6 to win the Paris Open yesterday, her second consecutive WTA title.

The world number two, who was returning to action after winning her first grand slam crown in Melbourne last month, denied Pierce revenge for last year's WTA Championships final.

Mauresmo made a flying start in the first all-French final at the tournament, breaking Pierce's serve twice in a row to cruise through the opening set.

Pierce displayed more patience in the second set and created a set point when she was leading 5-4 but Mauresmo fended it off.

Mauresmo, playing what is certainly her best tennis, wrapped up the victory on her first match point to take her second title in Paris after winning in 2001.

"When I came here I was a bit out of shape after the Australian Open," Mauresmo said.

"The first set was just great. In the second set, Mary lifted the level of her game and I was feeling a little tired but I hung on."