Henin says she's coming back

BRUSSELS, Sept. 22 (UPI) -- Belgian tennis star Justine Henin, who retired last year at the top of the game, said Tuesday she's coming back.

Henin, a 27-year-old seven-time Grand Slam event winner, will play exhibition matches in Dubai and Belgium before embarking on a full WTA Tour schedule in 2010, Sky Sports reported.

"I am moved, and very relieved as well, because it is true that I have wanted to share this with the public for a few weeks," Henin told Belgian broadcaster RTL. "It is a decision which makes me happy. It is a big decision in my life."

Henin had 41 career victories and had been ranked No. 1 in the world for 117 non-consecutive weeks when she announced her retirement in May 2008 at age 25, saying she had lost her passion for the sport. Those wins include four French Opens, two U.S. Opens, the Australian Open and an Olympic gold in 2004. She hasn't won at Wimbledon, however.