Former world number one Justine Henin has confirmed she will return to competitive tennis in 2010.
The 27-year-old retired in May 2008 but today announced her comeback just over a week after fellow Belgian Kim Clijsters capped her retirement U-turn with a second US Open title.
Henin won seven grand slam titles and had previously insisted her decision to retire was final.
‘A new future is ahead and I won't go back on this decision,’ she said last year.
However, she announced on live television this evening that she plans to play two exhibition tournaments this year to prepare for a competitive return in 2010.
‘I'm really happy and deeply moved to be able to announce tonight that I'm coming back to competitive tennis,’ Henin told RTL-TVI.
‘These past 15 months have been enriching... but there is a flame that has been re-lit. I thought it had been put out forever.’
Coach Carlos Rodriguez is delighted at Henin's decision and revealed one of the principle reasons for the player coming out of retirement was her desire to win Wimbledon.
‘I swear I was extremely surprised,’ he said. ‘I'm happy because at the end of the day it's what she loves.
‘She has entrusted me (to be her coach) once again and I will try to never let her down.
‘I'm very happy to be helping her to restart her new life. It's a super challenge for her.
‘The desire to win Wimbledon is one of the main reasons she's come back and I'll do everything to help her do it.’
Henin has pencilled in her comeback for the Australian Open in January.
