Both Tjen and Birrell had battled through multiple three-setters to reach the final, including a dramatic comeback victory for Birrell in the semifinals the day before, where she rallied from 5-0 down in the third set—and saved five match points—to outlast Taiwan’s Joanna Garland under sweltering conditions, 6-7 (2), 6-3, 7-5.
But in the final Tjen was just too solid when it mattered most, saving 12 of the 14 break points she faced—and converting on five of her own six break point opportunities—en route to a straight-set victory.
Tennis legend Vijay Amritraj was on hand for the trophy ceremony, where Tjen gave all kinds of praise to Australia’s Birrell.
“She’s very gritty,” Tjen said. “We saw from the first round how really she can be, and she can come back every time. Even yesterday she was down match points and came back. She’s a very experienced player, and it’s never easy to play someone like Kim.
“So I’m glad to be able to win today.”
Birrell echoed the sentiment. “Congratulations Janice,” she said, “you played so well, and you deserve all of the success you’re having.”
