Justine Henin today revealed she will defend her Eastbourne title next month, insisting: "I'm really excited to be going back".

The Belgian has got her career back on track following the winter split from husband Pierre Yves Hardenne.

After pulling out of the Australian Open in January because of her domestic situation, Henin has bagged titles at Warsaw, Doha and Dubai to regain her place as world No.1.

Henin defeated Russian Anastasia Myskina over three sets in last year's final at Devonshire Park and retaining the International Women's Open would give her the platform to launch a bid to secure her first Wimbledon crown.

She said: "Eastbourne last year was a great event for me and the perfect preparation ahead of Wimbledon (where she was a beaten finalist) and I am sure it will be again.

"The courts were excellent, there was a good atmosphere during the week and I met some great people. I'm really looking forward to going back. It's always special to defend a title."