Henin confirms Brisbane comeback

Henin has already been given a wildcard for the Australian Open

Former world number one Justine Henin will make her comeback at the Brisbane International tournament in Australia, which starts on 3 January.

Henin retired in May 2008 but said in September she was planning a comeback.

The Belgian, 27, has already been given a wildcard for the Australian Open in Melbourne, which begins on 18 January.

She stated: "With the strong field, the same surface and similar climate to Melbourne, this will be the perfect preparation for the Australian Open."

Henin's return to tournament tennis will pit her against compatriot and fellow ex-retiree Kim Clijsters, who won the US Open in September - only five weeks after ending a two-year hiatus.

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Former French Open champion Ana Ivanovic and home favourite Jelena Dokic will also play in Brisbane.

Tournament director Steve Ayles said: "It will be tremendous to see Justine match up against her former rival and countrywoman Kim Clijsters. We are looking at an extremely strong women's field."