Former world No.1 and seven-time Grand Slam champion unexpectedly reveals a shocking truth about herself
Justine Henin is remembered as one of the most resilient and fiercely competitive female tennis players ever. Yet behind her smooth one-handed backhand and steely determination was a very different side of Henin.
Justine Henin admits to feeling lonely during her top-level tennis career
"Many people say I’m cold," Henin revealed in an open discussion on a podcast Tennis Insider Club hosted by Caroline Garcia. "But I fully accept it. I can’t blend into social life, can’t always be friendly or spend time with everyone. I’m there to play tennis, to do my job."
Henin explained that building a personal "cocoon" was her way to cope with the heavy pressure of competitive life. "I was exactly where I dreamed to be. But once I stepped in, the pressure was very clear. It was a huge challenge to overcome. For me, withdrawing had a positive meaning because it helped me focus on the essentials."
Justine Henin has won 7 Grand Slam titles
Henin’s career was brilliant with 117 weeks as world No.1, 41 titles big and small, and the gold medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics. Yet, she had very few friends on tour. "Nathalie Dechy was my only true friend," she admitted. "I don’t need many friends, but definitely at least one. Otherwise, loneliness would be terrible." In a sport where players spend most time traveling, training, and competing, Henin understood well the cost of her total focus.
Coach Carlos Rodriguez also helped reinforce this reserved lifestyle. "He was very clear: what do we want to do, who do we want to become? For us, tennis and goals were more important than money. He also reminded me: when you read the news, good or bad, it’s like losing a set. That’s math — and he was right. So I stopped reading the press."
If the playing days were linked with loneliness, retirement gave Henin the chance to enjoy the simple pleasures she had missed. "As I said, life after tennis is truly wonderful," Henin smiled. "Although I stay connected to tennis in many ways, I’m no longer under the spotlight. I cherish every moment at home, enjoying the simplicity of family life. To be happy, sometimes you don’t need much."
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