Chakvetadze wins all-Russian final in Hobart

MELBOURNE, Jan 12 (Reuters) Top seed Anna Chakvetadze tuned-up for next week's Australian Open by winning the Hobart International title with a 6-3 7-6 win over little-known Russian compatriot Vasilisa Bardina today.

Chakvetadze overcame a stomach strain to claim her third WTA trophy but said an early wake-up call meant she would have to put her celebrations on hold.

''I have a flight at six in the morning tomorrow so probably I'll sleep all day and then have a practice on Sunday,'' said Chakvetadze, who has been drawn to face Austrian Sybille Bammer in the first round at Melbourne Park.

''When you win a tournament it's a pleasure. It's tier IV but it's a win and it feels good.'' Bardina, who had to qualify for the tournament, said she finally ran out of puff.

''I tried to play well but I was so tired,'' said Bardina, who will have to recover quickly as she has been drawn to play Kim Clijsters in the first round of the Australian Open.

''I'm glad that it's my best result and hopefully it won't be my last (final).'' REUTERS PDS RN1830