Since bursting on to the scene by reaching the 2001 French Open semi-finals as a 19-year-old, Justine Henin has built a reputation as one of the most talented yet enigmatic sportswomen.

Possessing a breathtaking backhand that most people could only dream about, she had tennis purists drooling because, in the era where power tennis ruled, she bucked the trend with her effortless classical style. Outside her job on the tennis courts of the world, however, her life was a closed book — but that was until her four-year marriage to Pierre-Yves Hardenne broke down earlier this year.

Since returning to the tour after skipping the Australian Open to sort out her personal life, she seems to have acquired a free spirit. Topics that were once off limits — like her estrangement from her father Jose and three siblings — were animatedly being discussed.

After patching up her differences with her family three months ago, it came as little surprise when the emotions just spilled out on Saturday once she had secured her third successive, and fourth overall, French Open crown. It was the first time her brothers David and Thomas and sister Sarah had witnessed one of her triumphs from the stands. Her father Jose wished her luck from back home.

“I wanted this victory so much,” said the 25-year-old, who dedicated her 6-1, 6-2 win over Serb Ana Ivanovic to her family. “Today, finally, we are united in this joy, and we can share this moment, and it’s great.”