Hayden, world champion in 2006, had not climbed onto the podium since the 2007 season following a dismal 2008 campaign with Repsol Honda.
But the American fought for victory in the first Indianapolis race on Sunday, although he eventually had to settle for second place behind Valentino Rossi.
Hayden admitted the result was a big boost for his whole crew.
"It's great for my confidence, but honestly I don't doubt my skills," said Hayden. "I know it's been a tough year, as I said the other day, I came into this race having the worst season I've had in my career, although I don't want anyone feeling sorry for me because I've had it pretty good.
"It seemed like I couldn't do anything right. I was making some mistakes, and some things that went on in the team have just been tough on everybody. My team needed a boost. They deserved it, because my guys have worked really hard."
The 'Kentucky kid' took the lead of the race early on and stayed there until Rossi charged back following a shaky start from pole position.
Hayden finished nearly six seconds behind Rossi after the race was shortened due to the poor weather.
"It was never like I had a big lead, so I knew it wasn't going to be easy," Hayden added. "But it felt great to be up front and I felt comfortable there. I felt like I was in control.
"I knew it was going to be tough. I was a little bit worried that I was too soft on the tyres and might be in trouble. She started to spin a little bit early on, so I knew it wasn't going to be easy.
"The podium's good, but I'm greedy - I've been a world champion and I want to win. When you're leading your home GP and the laps are clicking away, I'm not thinking 'ah, be cool, let's stay on the podium', I'm thinking 'let's go for it...'"
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