Early exit for Hingis

Martina Hingis’ latest comeback event saw her crash out in the first round, although she was up against former world number one Justine Henin-Hardenne at the Medibank International in Sydney.

Hingis, who reached the semi-finals at the Mondial Australian Women’s Hardcourts last week, was beaten in straight sets, 6-3 6-3, by the Belgian.

Henin-Hardenne is on the comeback trail herself, having been out since October with a leg injury.

After Hingis lost her opening service game Henin-Hardenne took control and put the Swiss star under pressure every time she served with her powerful groundstrokes.