Top

Henin plays down grand slam chances


 

Originally published on: 26/02/10 12:57

The seven-time major champion is making her return to the WTA Tour next month after surprisingly retiring while world number one in May last year. Henin is following her Belgian countrywoman Clijsters, who sensationally won the US Open in September in only her third tournament back after more than two years away from the tour.

Henin overcame world number 12 Flavia Pennetta 6-4 6-4 in an exhibition in Charleroi on Sunday, but the 27-year-old told www.nieuwsblad.be: “My game is still a work in progress. Perhaps Australia (Open) will also be premature. I don’t want anything from Australia in terms of results. I want to enjoy it – the reunion with the circuit, the other girls, the adrenaline.”

She added: “I hope I can show on the court what I learned in training. But I do not expect results.”

Regarding her feelings about being back on the court again, Henin continued: “This is very emotional. I had three nights with tears in my eyes trying to sleep. That is my greatest satisfaction after this weekend – I have managed to control my emotions.”

The four-time French Open champion was known for her serious attitude during her first stint on tour, in contrast to the more fun-loving Clijsters.

But Henin has promised to show a different side to her character this time, saying: “I have nothing to prove to other people, only to myself. I want to prove that I am calmer and more mature now. I also want it to be different to my first career.

“I want much more emphasis on human relationships. In my first career, I didn’t realise what sport can mean to the people. Now I understand better.

“My big problem is that I am basically shy. When the spotlight is on me, I crawl into my shell, instead of showing that I can be funny or fun. I’m trying that now. It’s my job.”

Now get the WORLD’S BEST TENNIS MAGAZINE here


Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.