Top-seeded Vera Zvonareva of Russia toppled India's Sania Mirza 7-5, 6-1 in the Pattaya Open final yesterday to win her eighth WTA career title.

The world No. 5-ranked Russian had some difficulties handling her opponent's big forehands in the first set, but was too strong in the second, clinching the trophy in one hour and 17 minutes.

Zvonareva, an Australian Open semi-finalist, charged into the match with a 5-2 lead in the first set, but lost the next three games as Mirza fought back with her powerful forehand and sharp crosscourt winners.

Play not aggressive

"I didn't play aggressively enough and made a few errors," the 24-year-old Russian said. "But I lifted up my game from 5-5. I didn't let her play the way she liked to."

At 6-5, the Russian set up a second set point with a backhand winner and then forced a backhand error from the Indian to break Mirza's serve and win the set.

Mirza acknowledged the quality of her opponent's game, while complaining of being jaded.

"No excuses but I just wished I felt fresher," Mirza said. "I had a long singles match on Saturday and then had to play the doubles. I felt tired."

The Indian, formerly ranked No. 27, but now 126th as she makes her way back from long-term wrist injuries, was encouraged by her strong start to 2009. She won the mixed doubles title at the Australian Open with compatriot Mahesh Bhupathi.