"I am sad and disappointed to announce that I will not be able to participate in Wimbledon this year," the Australian Open [ Images ] champion said in a statement on Tuesday.

Question marks over the Belgian's health were raised after she was knocked out in the second round of the French Open [ Images ] last month.

Before arriving in Paris to defend her Roland Garros [ Images ] crown, Henin-Hardenne had not played a tournament since early April having suffered from a viral infection.

"My physicians have given me strict orders that several more weeks of rest are necessary to ensure a full recovery," Henin-Hardenne said.

"Since the day I walked off the court after the semi-finals at Wimbledon last year, I have been looking forward to competing on the grass again. Unfortunately, my dream of holding the Wimbledon trophy must wait another year. I look forward to an early and complete recovery."

Her fellow Belgian, world number two Kim Clijsters [ Images ], withdrew from the tournament on Monday with a wrist injury.