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Australian Open: Sania to face Henin in first round

Last updated on: January 17, 2011 09:39 IST

Indian tennis star Sania Mirza will face former World No1 Justine Henin in her first round match of the Australian Open in Melbourne on Monday.

Despite the tough opponent, the 24-year-old is confident that she will be able to put in a good show.

"I couldn't have imagined a tougher opponent than Justine in the main draw," Sania said.

sania mirza"She is a great player, has huge experience, she is one of the greats of the game. I have nothing to lose. I'll go out there and enjoy the match. I'm looking forward to playing her," she added.

Sania has reached the third round of the tournament twice, in 2007 and 2008.

She had picked her first Grand Slam title at the 2009 Australian Open.

Partnering Mahesh Bhupathi, she had won the mixed doubles title beating Nathalie Dechy (France) and Andy Ram (Israel) 6–3, 6–1 in the final.

Among other Indians, Somdev Devvarman also has tough day in the office as he faces Spain's Tommy Robredo in his opening round match at Melbourne Park.

Source: ANI