Henin powers into last eight

Justine Henin continued her impressive return from retirement with a three-set win over Yanina Wickmayer to reach the quarter-finals of the Australian Open.

The 27-year-old is less than a month into her return after ending her 20-month retirement but is in sight of an eighth grand slam title after defeating her fellow Belgian 7-6 (7/3) 1-6 6-3.

The wildcard entry again had to call on her feted battling qualities as Wickmayer, the world number 16, raced through the second set to take the match into a decider.

Henin steadied, however, and produced some memorable winners to rebuke Wickmayer's resolute challenge.

"It wasn't easy. She played a great match," Henin said. "She was very aggressive and took her chances.

"Physically it was not easy for me. I missed two years so that's why I loved being n the court now.

"It's a great feeling to be back. Everything is going so well."

Henin will next meet 19th seed Nadia Petrova, who she beat in her first match back from retirement in Brisbane at the start of the month.