Henin thanks coach and crowd after U.S. Open triumph

NEW YORK, Sep 9 (Reuters) World number one Justine Henin was quick to pay tribute to her coach and the crowd after crushing Svetlana Kuznetsova of Russia 6-1 6-3 in the US Open final.

''It's such a great feeling. My first victory here four years ago was an amazing memory,'' the 2003 champion told the crowd yesterday.

''Today has been fantastic. I had two amazing weeks. I played my best tennis. You guys gave me so much support. Thanks for an amazing atmosphere tonight.'' After clinching victory to secure the trophy and 1.4 million dollars first prize, Henin climbed up into the stands to hug her coach Carlos Rodriguez.

''He hates when I say thank you to him, so I don't want to say anything. Only kidding,'' Henin said.

''Eleven years together. I can tell you it's just a great adventure. He's such a great person. He makes me a better person, a better player. I wouldn't be this Justine without him.'' REUTERS BJR KP1018