Svetlana Kuznetsova has ended Daniela Hantuchova's dream run at the Eastbourne International, slamming the brakes on the Slovak to win the title.

The second-seeded Russian was blown away by Hantuchova -- once ranked as high as fifth in the world but now wallowing at 54th -- in the first set before hitting back for a 2-6, 7-6, 6-4 win.

For the Russian, victory meant a first title since Bali in September 2002, having lost the last three finals she has contested.

Reaching the final alone was a triumph for Hantuchova whose form has slumped dramatically in the last 18 months.

She suffered a torrid 2003 as her skeletal appearance prompted concerns about her diet and health.

Since then, however, the 21-year-old has put on more than a stone in weight and reunited with British coach Nigel Sears.

Looking happier than in many months, Hantuchova played with abandon and a cheery smile on Devonshire Park's grass courts all week.

She beat top seed Amelie Mauresmo in the semi-finals on Friday to reach her first final since October 2002.

Although Kuznetsova walked away with the silverware on Saturday, Hantuchova has a lot to be pleased about and will go into next week's Wimbledon championships with a much-needed boost in confidence.