By Laura Weydandt
July 22 2004

World No 1 Justine Henin–Hardenne withdraws from the Acura Classic tournament in San Diego and the Rogers AT&T Cup in Montreal. The Belgian, who played her last match at Roland Garros, is still recovering from a nasty viral infection and needs still more time to recover. Henin-Hardenne said she loved the two tournaments in San Diego and Montreal but still has to wait for her comeback.

"I was advised by my doctors to wait yet again to return to competition. As you can imagine, I am thoroughly disappointed. The past four months have been challenging. I have worked hard to try and get back onto the court as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, however, my body just needs more rest. The only thing I can say is that I wish everyone the best of luck in San Diego and Montreal.” Henin- Hardenne said in a statement on Tuesday.

The winner of three grand slam tournaments, had also to withdraw from the All England Championships due to a nasty viral infection. Henin-Hardenne now hopes to play at the Olympic games, which starts in August.


"Her health condition is going in the right direction. For a couple of days now, Justine is feeling much better. She has less problems focusing on things and her moments of weakness are disappearing. Those are encouraging signs, that's for sure. We see light at the end of the tunnel but with this virus, we still can't be certain. We stay cautious, hoping she'll be recovered before the Olympics start.” Justine’s coach Carlos Rodriguez said.