If you've noticed something different about Justine Henin in her return debut at the 2010 Australian Open, it has nothing to do with her backhand. It's the same gorgeous shot that she has always had.
So what is that is different?
Henin is holding a new Wilson Tour BLX tennis racquet. The newly released racquet not only coincides with Henin's comeback, it has also been created in collaboration with the Belgian.
The Tour BLX has been redefined with an improved level of feel thanks to the BLX technology — BL stands for basalt, X stands for 9 extraordinary proprietary technologies and BLX stands for Perfect Feel. Basalt is a natural volcanic rock that boasts incredible vibration resistance. The new BLX technology weaves Basalt fibers in the construction of the racquet for what it calls "the most advanced composites in the industry."
A seven-time Grand Slam champion, Henin says she wants to come back because she has unfinished business in tennis: she wants to win Wimbledon, the only major she hasn't won, and play at least until the 2012 Olympics.
So far, the Wilson Tour BLX looks like the perfect match for Henin as she makes her comeback. She's already off to a flying start. Last week, she reached the final in Brisbane, her first tournament back; in Melbourne she's already knocked off the No. 5 seed Elena Dementieva.
Henin's new racquet will be available in mid-February at Tennis Warehouse.