Serena Williams: 'Nerves almost cost me French Open crown'

Serena Williams has admitted that nerves almost cost her the French Open title following her dramatic win over Lucie Safarova in the final.

The American won the 20th Grand Slam of her career on Saturday thanks to a thrilling three-set triumph over the world number 13.

Williams let a 6-3 4-1 lead slip as Safarova fought back to take the match to a decider, but the world number one eventually closed out the contest 6-3 6-7(2) 6-2.

"It got really complicated today," she told reporters. "I was getting a little bit nervous, and Lucie was just playing great. She was a magnificent opponent. She was playing very aggressive and she had no fear.

"To win my 20th Grand Slam title at Roland Garros is very special for me because I haven't always had the most success here. I want to thank all of the fans - it's just a dream that I've won this title."

Williams's triumph at Roland Garros has made her just the third player, male or female, to win 20 Grand Slam titles.