By Chris Davies
February 16 2003

Defending Champion Venus Williams won her second successive Diamond Games in Antwerp to retain the crown by beating home favourite Kim Clijsters. Williams who did not drop a set throughout the whole tournament won her first title of the year. Her serve and play from the back of the court was decisive in the match.

The American looked set to wrap up victory when she led 5-2 in the second set after winning the first 6-2. But Clijsters rallied to take the next two games before Williams finally triumphed 6-4 and pocket the $93,000 first prize.

If Williams wins the title again in any of the next three years she will be able to keep the diamond-encrusted trophy permanently.

Venus has pulled out of next weeks Dubai Duty Free Womens Open but the field still includes Justine Henin-Hardenne and Jennifer Capriati.