Melbourne - Justine Henin will make her return to tennis while David Nalbandian will test his form after hip surgery at the start of the year in preparation for the Australian Open.

Former number one Henin has confirmed that she will headline on the women's side of the draw in Brisbane from January 4 while Nalbandian will travel across the Pacific to play a week later in Auckland.

The former Wimbledon finalist underwent his operation in the spring and is due to step onto court for the first time since a loss in Estoril on May 4 at an exhibition at home in Argentina in December featuring Marat Safin.

Former number three Nalbandian believes the Auckland Open from January 11 will allow him to rediscover his game in time for the major starting a week later.

He will be aiming to become the second straight Argentine champion in New Zealand after Juan Del Potro took the trophy this year.

Henin, a seven-time Grand Slam winner, is making her comeback after little more than a year away prior to announcing her return.

"After a 15-month absence I am pleased to begin my second tennis career at the Brisbane International," the 27-year-old said in a statement Wednesday.

The Belgian will take a wild card into the field which also features compatriot and fellow returnee Kim Clijsters, the surprise US Open champion last month.

American Andy Roddick will also make his Brisbane debut. (dpa)