Justine Henin-Hardenne has joined the star-studded line-up playing at Eastbourne this year.

The world No. 5 joins Amelie Mauresmo, defending champion Kim Clijsters and Nadia Petrova at Devonshire Park from June 19 to 24.

It means four of the world's top five players will play at the Hastings Direct International Championships, the traditional warm-up for Wimbledon that starts a week later.

Debutante Henin-Hardenne, from Belgium, who has won the Australian, French and US Opens, was due to play at Eastbourne in 2005 but pulled out with injury.

She said: "I've only heard good things about Eastbourne and my best friend on the Tour, Natalie Dechy, loves the tournament and has always told me I have to play.

"It was unfortunate that I was injured last year. I was very disappointed not to play but this year I hope I can make it.

"I have heard that the courts are very good and everyone says it is the best preparation for Wimbledon. I hope that we are going to have some good weather in England."

Other big names include former champion Svetlana Kuznetsova, Anastasia Myskina, the 2004 French Open champion, and Daniela Hantuchova, beaten finalist two years ago.

Tournament director Gavin Fletcher said: "We are honoured to welcome Justin Henin-Hardenne. She is an inspirational character and is sure to receive great support from the crowd. It promises to be a mouth-watering week of tennis."

Qualifying will take place between June 17 and 19 of June 2006. Ring 01323 412000 for ticket details.