[Anfester]

BRUSSELS — Justine Henin lauded compatriot Kim Clijsters on Tuesday for her stunning victory at the U.S. Open amid speculation the former No. 1 might also announce a return to the circuit soon.

Using her competition website for the first time in over five months, Henin said that "what you have come to achieve there is incredible."

"I very warmly congratulate you with your magnificent victory," she wrote.

Having played barely a month on the tour after 2 1/2 years in retirement, Clijsters won the U.S. Open on Sunday, beating both Venus and Serena Williams on the way to the final.

Up to a few months ago, Henin seemed totally happy in retirement too, but has not made any efforts recently to quash rumours to the contrary. Only last week, she refused to discuss her possible return.

On Tuesday, her spokesperson did not return calls to discuss the issue.

The RTBF television network reported that Henin had recently bought 14 rackets and would make a public announcement soon.

Last year, Henin shocked the tennis world by announcing her retirement while still ranked No. 1. In May, she complained that the sport had left her with so many physical pains a return was unthinkable.

Yet she was seen training again recently, apparently for a small exhibition tournament in the southern city of Charleroi, one she has played in regularly during the December winter break.

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