Wildcard Henin installed at 7.80 for Australian Open

The 2010 Australian Open will feature 2004 winner Justine Henin after she was awarded a wildcard entry in to January's tournament.

The 27-year-old recently said she was coming out of retirement after less than two years away from the game.

Betfair has immediately installed her as a 7.80 shot for the tournament, while Serena Williams and Kim Clijsters head the tennis betting market, both on 4.30.

Tournament Director Craig Tiley said: "I spoke to Justine’s team over the weekend and was happy to grant her request for a wildcard into the Australian Open.

"I know Justine will not have made the decision to come out of retirement lightly, and have no doubt she will be in great shape and prepared to compete against the world's best."

The Belgian has seven grand slam titles to her name, and is expected to begin playing competitively again at the Brisbane International, 15 days before the start of the Open on January 18.

Between Henin and the joint favourites is Venus Williams, on 7.00, plus Maria Sharapova, on odds of 7.60 with Betfair.

Odds for the mens' event see Roger Federer as the 3.55 favourite, with Rafael Nadal at 5.60 and Juan Martin Del Potro on 6.20.