13 October 2011 | Tennis Queensland

 Current Australian Open champion Kim Clijsters is the latest tennis star to confirm she will start her year in Brisbane.

The Belgian No.1 will be on the comeback trail following a torn stomach muscle that has kept her from defending her title at the US Open this year.

The 2010 Brisbane International champion is now looking ahead and focusing on her 2012 season.

“I am really looking forward to coming back to Brisbane in 2012,” Clijsters said.

“The last time I was there I played extremely well and had some really tough matches.

“The final against Justine was a big match, we both played great tennis, we were extremely focused and we set the bar pretty high.

“I was so excited to win that match and I am hoping to get this kind of lead up preparation again in 2012.

“With Maria [Sharapova], Sam [Stosur] and Serena [Williams] already confirmed for the Brisbane International it is going to be a tough contest but also be a great chance to test your form leading into the first Grand Slam.

“Having won the Brisbane event in 2010 and then the Australian Open last year I am looking forward to getting back on the court in Australia to defend both my titles.

“Australia has always been a home away from home for me and I am very comfortable there. I am thrilled to be returning in January.”

Brisbane International Tournament Director Cameron Pearson said Clijsters would be a welcome addition to the Brisbane International.

“Kim is an extremely popular player with both fans and players alike and it will great to see her back on court in Brisbane this summer,” Pearson said.

“As a past champion, Kim will add another exciting dimension to what is already a spectacular line-up attending the Brisbane International in 2012.

“We have confirmed multiple Grand Slam champions as well as former No.1’s, all of whom are capable of amazing top class tennis and winning the event.

“Kim was a crowd favourite here in 2010, and with her powerful, well-placed ground strokes and her speed and athleticism will be one to watch in January and I am excited that she has chosen to start her year with us.”