Henin on the verge of possible 2010 return

 

Originally published on: 26/02/10 11:44

Justine Henin could be set to announce that she will come out of retirement next season, days after compatriot Kim Clijsters won the US Open just 14 matches into her own comeback.

Belgian press agencies are speculating that the former world No.1 plans to embark upon a return to competitive action in January 2010, just 16 months after retiring in May 2008.

Posting an update on her official website for the first time in five months, Henin congratulated Clijsters for her second grand slam triumph, having won the 2005 US Open before retiring in 2007 to start a family.

“Congratulations with your magnificent victory,” read the message. “Once again, Jada [Clijsters’ daughter] can be very proud of her mama.

“Your achievement is just fantastic! Warm applause to you and your whole family.”

Up to a few months ago, Henin seemed totally happy in retirement, but after unequivocally refusing to consider talk of a return last year, as recently as last week she instead refused to discuss the likelihood of a possible return.

The RTBF television network has reported that Henin recently bought 14 rackets and is planning to make a public announcement about her future soon.

Last year, Henin rocked the tennis world by announcing her retirement while still ranked world No.1.

If Henin was intent on returning to competitive action, she would have to notify anti-doping authorities to re-enter the testing pool for three months.

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