In Paris, the 22-year-old Muscovite became the first Russian woman to win a Grand Slam title after crushing her compatriot and long-time friend Elena Dementieva 6-1 6-2 in a one-sided French Open final.

"Winning the French Open was a huge psychological boost for me," said Myskina, who at number three became the world's highest-ranked Russian woman ever following her Paris triumph.

"It has given me a new level of confidence in myself, in my ability, not only to perform well but reach and win big finals. It was a major breakthrough in terms of self-belief for me."

Myskina will be the top-ranked player in the women's singles next week, after the withdrawals of Belgians Justine Henin-Hardenne and Kim Clijsters through injury and illness, but is unlikely to be seeded first by Wimbledon organisers who look at grass-court pedigree in drawing up their list.

She said she was confident of taking on the game's power hitters, such as previous champions Serena and Venus Williams and their fellow American Jennifer Capriati.

"In the past, playing against the Williams sisters for example, you were in awe of their physique, speed and power and could simply freeze on court being so nervous," Myskina said.

"But after battling various injuries and losing a few matches to lesser players they don't look invincible any more. At least I approach each and every match believing I can win."

BIRTHDAY PRESENT

The fiery Myskina attributes improvements in her game to a new-found ability to control her hot temper.

"I'm a lot calmer now than I used to be," she said. "Therefore, you can think more clearly and play better."

Although grass remains her least favourite surface, Myskina hopes to improve on her best showing at the All England Club last year when she reached the fourth round.

"I'm not the favourite there, but who says I can't reach the final just like I did in Paris? That would be a nice birthday present," said Myskina, who turns 23 five days after the July 3 women's final.

But she will have to find her rhythm and timing on the slick Wimbledon courts right away as her preparations for the only Grand Slam played on grass were cut short when she was forced to pull out of this week's warm-up event at Eastbourne.

Myskina cited mental and physical fatigue for her withdrawal.

"Winning a Grand Slam has its consequences, both physical and emotional," she said last week. "I am exhausted from the daily wear and tear and am not prepared mentally and physically to start a tournament this coming week."