Former world No. 1 and seven-time Grand Slam champion Justine Henin has been honoured with the Philippe Chatrier Award, the highest recognition from the International Tennis Federation (ITF). The Belgian star was presented with the award at the ITF World Champions Awards in London on Saturday, July 8. 


The Philippe Chatrier Award, named after the former ITF president, was introduced in 1996 and recognizes individuals or organizations that have made significant contributions to the sport of tennis both on and off the court. Henin joins a distinguished list of past winners that includes Billie Jean King, Martina Navratilova, John McEnroe, and Neale Fraser.


Henin had a remarkable career that spanned over a decade and saw her win four French Open titles, two US Open titles, one Australian Open title, and an Olympic gold medal at the 2004 Athens Games. Henin reached the No. 1 ranking for the first time in 2003 and held it for a total of 117 weeks. The Belgian retired from the sport in 2008, briefly returned in 2010 and then retired for good in 2011 due to injuries.


“I always gave my very best throughout my career and achieved a lot of success,” Henin said. She continued, “I have worked very hard since retirement to give back to the sport that I love, and I will continue to do so. Tennis is a unique and brilliant sport that provides benefits for people's physical and mental health.”


The 41-year-old Henin has now established a successful academy in Belgium and a charitable foundation that helps provide sporting opportunities for children with disabilities. She has also worked as a commentator and ambassador for various events and causes.