"It's the end of a wonderful adventure but it's something I have been thinking about for a long time," said the Belgian.

Henin, 25, winner of seven Grand Slam titles, was expected to defend her French Open crown later this month but instead turned her back on the sport.

"I am leaving as the world number one and that is important and it is always better to go out at the top," said Henin, who won 41 titles since turning professional in 1999.

"I leave without any regrets and I know it is the right decision."