Melbourne, Jan 16 (DPA) Justine Henin is glad to be back at the Australian Open as memories of her short-lived, 18-month retirement fade away.
The seven-time Grand Slam winner said Saturday that her decision to skip this week’s Sydney event after reaching a final in Brisbane against compatriot Kim Clijsters was a wise one after coming down with a few physical niggles at her first event back in the game.
“Of course, I would have preferred to go and play in Sydney, but physically I needed a few days to recover,” said the 27-year-old. “My gluts were painful.
“After three or four days, I was almost 100 per cent. Then my left foot was a bit sore also. I could practice normally in the last three or four days. And I feel good in practice. Competition is another thing. Especially in Grand Slams, a lot of things can happen. Every match is difficult.”
The Belgian’s return, only months after Clijsters showed it can be managed as she won the US Open in only her third event back, after retiring to give birth, has re-instilled confidence in Henin.
“I couldn’t expect something better than what happened in Brisbane in terms of rhythm and intensity of the game,” Henin said.
“Kim pushed me to another level, that I wasn’t used to anymore. That’s what I needed before coming here. But I feel like I’m still here to build my confidence again.
“And it will take probably a few weeks, maybe a few tournaments, maybe a few months, to really be at my top. It doesn’t mean I cannot win matches. That’s the attitude I got in Brisbane. I have come with the same attitude here in Melbourne. Day after day we’re going to see what’s going to happen.”
Henin begins in the first round against countrywoman Kirsten Flipkens.
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