TENNIS:TOP SEED Caroline Wozniacki held off a spirited fightback by Frenchwoman Marion Bartoli to win her 14th WTA title with a 6-1 2-6 6-3 victory in the Indian Wells, final in California last night.

The Danish world number one recovered from the surprise loss of the second set to end a marathon baseline slugfest in two hours eight minutes. Wozniacki, beaten by Serb Jelena Jankovic in last years final here, broke the 15th-seeded Frenchwoman three times in the final set, sealing victory when her opponent sent a backhand long.

On a cool overcast day in the California desert, the Dane threw both arms skywards to celebrate her second title of the year, having also triumphed at last months Dubai championships.

Marion, you had an amazing tournament this week, a jubilant Wozniacki said courtside. I am sorry I had to beat you in the final but its not like football where there is a draw. Bartoli, who had booked her place in the final by crushing Belgian Yanina Wickmayer 6-1 6-3, choked back tears as she applauded the Dane.