Henin calls time on second career

 

Originally published on: 27/01/11 06:06

Justine Henin has announced her retirement from tennis because of a long-standing elbow injury.

The seven–time Grand Slam champ, who only returned to the sport after 18 months out a year ago, revealed the decision on her website a few days after exiting the Australian Open at the hands of Svetlana Kuznetsova.

The statement from Henin read: “I have unfortunately not good news. I spent the last days undergoing various medical tests and they have confirmed that my elbow has been damaged by my adventure in Australia… After having well considered and following the advice of doctors, it is now clear and I accept that my career here finally ends. Even though it’s hard, very hard, while I came back with a tremendous fighting spirit.

“I turn, and this time, an incredible page of my life… What a wonderful trip I have experienced during all these years. Today I’m calmer and I can create a positive and rewarding look back on this experience in my life… Finally and most importantly, thanks everyone. Thanks for standing by my side during all these years. I will never forget your support and your loyalty.”

Henin, who finished three seasons at world No.1 and won the Australian Open crown in 2004 along with four French, two US Open titles had initially made an encouraging comeback to the WTA Tour, reaching back-to-back finals in Brisbane and at the Australian Open last January before winning the Stuttgart and ‘s-Hertogenbosch titles.

But during her fourth round loss to Kim Clijsters at Wimbledon – the title she most desired to complete her Grand Slam set – the 28-year-old Belgian fell on and injured her right elbow, ruling her out for the rest of the season, and today causing her to call time on her brief second career. 

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