Belgian · Liège, Belgium · Born 1 June 1982Belgian great who won 7 Grand Slam singles titles, including four French Opens, and reached world No. 1 with a career Olympic gold in 2004.
Justine Henin was born in Liège, Belgium in 1983 and turned professional in 1999, winning 7 Grand Slam singles titles and retiring undefeated as world number one in May 2008 — the only player in the Open Era to retire at the top of the rankings. She won 4 French Opens (2003, 2004, 2005, 2007), 2 US Opens (2003, 2007) and the 2004 Australian Open. She held the world number one ranking for 117 weeks. Her one-handed backhand — struck with topspin from a closed stance — was the most technically beautiful groundstroke in women's tennis since Graf and is widely considered the finest one-handed backhand in women's tennis history. She won Olympic gold at Athens 2004. She won the WTA Finals in 2006 and 2007. Her 79% career win percentage and 43 titles came despite her relatively modest physical stature — at 5ft 5in she was smaller than most opponents, compensating through timing, angles and footwork of extraordinary quality. She made a comeback in 2010–2011 but was unable to recapture her peak level. Her victory over Kim Clijsters at the 2003 US Open — where she raised her hand to indicate a disputed let call that potentially cost Clijsters a match point — remains one of the most controversial moments in women's Grand Slam history.
One-handed backhand, dominant clay-court champion
She is the last woman to win the French Open with a one-handed backhand.
Did You Know?How They Played
Henin possessed one of the finest one-handed backhands in tennis history, capable of generating tremendous power and precision from both wings. She was an exceptional clay court player with outstanding court coverage, mental toughness, and the ability to construct points tactically. Her aggressive baseline game was complemented by excellent net play and a reliable serve.
Lasting Impact
Henin elevated Belgian tennis to unprecedented heights and inspired a generation of players with her technical excellence and fighting spirit. Her rivalry with fellow Belgians Kim Clijsters and Amélie Mauresmo helped define women's tennis in the mid-2000s.
Career Honours
- 7 Grand Slam singles titles
- Olympic gold medallist (2004 Athens)
- world No. 1 for 117 weeks
- Fed Cup champion (2001)
Belgian Athletes