Henin-Hardenne agrees to play in Fed Cup final

World number three Justine Henin-Hardenne will play for Belgium in the final of the Fed Cup against Italy in September despite an initial threat from her coach that she would boycott the squad.

The French Open champion's coach Carlos Rodriguez told a news conference on Thursday that the player would be available for the match on home soil on September 16-17.

"Coach Carlos Rodriguez was happy to announce that a restoration for Justine to the national Fed Cup squad has occurred. Justine will be honoured to help Belgium gain their first Fed Cup title since 2001," said a message on Henin-Hardenne's website.

Rodriguez had previously said his charge was unlikely to take part because of what he described as the shocking treatment she received following her withdrawal from last weekend's semi-final win against the United States.

He insisted that Henin-Hardenne had informed team captain Carl Maes that she was too worn out to play after her Wimbledon final loss to Amelie Mauresmo, a week before the semi-final.

However, Maes kept this secret for several days, making it look like she had pulled out at the last minute. She was also encouraged to cheer on her team, then urged not to attend lest the crowd turn against her.

SCANT RESPECT

Rodriguez said Belgian tennis officials had not shown Henin-Hardenne due respect but added that the threat not to compete was never meant that earnestly.

"Debates were opened and truths were revealed from the Fed Cup tie last weekend in Ostend leading to a newer, greater understanding with parties involved," Rodriguez said.

Henin-Hardenne and Clijsters guided Belgium to their maiden Cup triumph in 2001 when they beat Russia in Madrid. But having not played in the competition since July 2003, Henin-Hardenne returned for the first round contest in April against Russia.

Belgium will now be favourites to regain the title. Without Henin-Hardenne, they could have struggled to beat an Italian team featuring top 20 players Francesca Schiavone and Flavia Pennetta. Clijsters is second in the world but Belgian number three Kirsten Flipkens is 122nd.

The Fed Cup final will take place one week after the end of the US Open, but Rodriguez made it clear Henin-Hardenne considers the team tournament as important as a Grand Slam.