Henin to make comeback in Brisbane

FORMER world number one Justine Henin will make her comeback at the Brisbane International in January.

FACE OFF: Justine Henin (left) and compatriot Kim Clijsters (right) will feature at the Brisbane International on January 3 (Getty Images)

The seven-time grand slam champion retired in May 2008 but announced her return to action in September.

The 27-year-old Belgian has been given a wildcard for the Australian Open in Melbourne, which starts on January 18.

"After a 15-month absence I am pleased to begin my second tennis career at the Brisbane International," said Henin.

"It will be great to get back to playing competitive tennis again and with the strong field, the same court surface and a similar climate to Melbourne, it will be the perfect preparation leading into the Australian Open."

Henin joins US Open champion and compatriot Kim Clijsters, Serbian Ana Ivanovic and home hope Jelena Dokic in Brisbane.

"It is shaping up to be a blockbuster event," said tournament director Steve Ayles.

"It will be tremendous to see Justine match up against her former rival and countrywoman Kim Clijsters and we are looking at an extremely strong women's field."