Nicol David edged past Natalie Grinham 3-11, 11-6, 11-3, 11-8 to claim the Forexx Women's World Open Squash 2009.

The victory recorded a fourth title win for David, who now becomes the third player in the championships' history for such a feat.

But it was Netherlands number one Natalie Grinham that looked to be the stronger contender throughout the game.

Grinham was the hot favourite going into the finals, and showed just why by leading 4-1, 6-3 and 8-6 in the fourth game.

A determined Nicol David, however, fought back hard and after two lengthy rallies saw the score move to eight-all, then two winners from David followed by a Grinham miss-hit took David to match-ball at 10-8.

Referee Chris Sinclair awarded David a stroke seconds later, clinching the Malaysian a 3-11, 11-6, 11-3, 11-8 win.

Relieved after the victory, David said: "I knew it was going to be tough - I felt those eight-all and nine-all points were so crucial.

"I needed that second game. After she won the first, I just didn't want her to get any more confidence.

"I just knew that the rallies would go on and on.

"To come back from last week and win my fourth world title means a lot to me.

"I'm so happy. I just don't know what to say," David concluded.

A devastated Natalie Grinham who was left to lament her loss, said: "I'm still thinking about the game.

"I wish there was more to play.

"When I think of how sick I was at the start of the year, being able to get a silver medal in the worlds is a great achievement in a way - I'm really delighted to be competing again at such a high level.

"But I've been second three times already, and I didn't come here to be second again, so of course I'm disappointed.

"I thought I was definitely up there," Grinham said.