Henin-Hardenne Will Play the French Open

World No. 1 Justine Henin-Hardenne says she has sufficiently recovered from the viral infection that has kept her out of action since April, and will defend her title at the French Open.

"I have been practicing regularly and even though I do not feel 100 percent, I feel I am in a good enough shape to go to Paris," said Henin-Hardenne at a Tuesday press conference.

Henin-Hardenne beat Belgian countrywoman Kim Clijsters to win her first grand slam title at Roland Garros in 2003, and in January of this year won the Australian Open. Henin-Hardenne has played only one claycourt event, beaten in the Amelia Island semifinals by Amelie Mauresmo.

"My build-up to Paris has not been perfect since I had to stop for several weeks and have played only four matches on clay this year," Henin-Hardenne said. "For several weeks, I was really unsure whether I could go to Paris and participate in my favorite event...but after two weeks of practice, I have decided to go for it.

The world No. 1 says she is feeling "about 80 percent."