Milito struck in the 57th minute to seal a 1-0 triumph at Siena on the final day of the campaign.

The result saw Inter finish two points clear of Roma, who won 2-0 at Parma, and secures Inter's second title under coach Jose Mourinho.

It also guarantees the Nerazzurri a place in the record books as the first team to win five back-to-back league titles since Juventus achieved the feat in the 1930s, and Milito was thrilled to have played a key role in the outcome.

"This is the most important goal of my career," he said.

"We are happy, we deserved this."

With Roma leading leading 2-0 at Parma at half-time, Inter fans had a nervous wait before Milito hit Inter's goal shortly before the hour mark.

"Fortunately, the ball went in as we had wasted several chances in the first half," Milito added.

Despite the nerves, Inter president Massimo Moratti, who turned 65 today, could not have asked for a better birthday present than the club's 18th league title.

Moratti said: "I am over the moon. We suffered until the end but we merit this.

"I have to congratulate my players and thank them."

Moratti also hailed the contribution of Mourinho, who has led the team to the brink of unprecedented achievement this season.

Inter's success seals a domestic double following their victory in the final of the Coppa Italia earlier this month, and Mourinho's men will now set their sights on an historic treble when they face Bayern Munich in the Champions League final next Saturday.

"Is it fair to say that this is Mourinho's Scudetto? Certainly, this is Mourinho's Scudetto," Moratti added.

Inter captain Javier Zanetti offered words of condolence for Roma, who pushed his side all the way in the race for the title.

"We have to compliment Roma," said Zanetti. "They have had a great season and have been in the battle for the title up to the final day.

"Now we will enjoy this success, our fifth straight Scudetto, an achievement taken against everyone and everything.

"We have proved to be very strong."

Inter will have little time to celebrate as they must prepare themselves for their next challenge against Bayern in Madrid next weekend.

"Our only thoughts are on keeping our focus for Saturday's final in Madrid," said Zanetti.

Moratti added: "We have to think of our game in Madrid.

"We have to do well there too in order to round off a great season."