Hingis thrilled with her 'second chance'

TOKYO (AFP) — Former world number one Martina Hingis is proud that she seized her second chance after coming out of retirement, but she says the time off taught her a valuable lesson -- there is life beyond tennis.

The 26-year-old Hingis claimed a record fifth victory at Tokyo's Pan Pacific Open on Sunday by beating up-and-coming Serbian teenager Ana Ivanovic, 6-4, 6-2.

It was her third title since she returned to the game following three years off the court in an early retirement caused by foot, heel and ankle injuries. She won last year in Italy and India.

"I never thought that I would have another chance of winning tournaments when I won at Rome and Kolkata," Hingis said.

"It seemed to be so normal to be winning tournaments in '97 and '98. And this time it feels like I really deserve it, ...