Justine Henin won her opening match of 2011 in the Hopman Cup but Belgium still lost 2-1 to Australia.
Henin revealed earlier this week that she is still a long way from peak fitness but she came through 6-4, 6-4 against Alicia Molik.
“I can't play at 100% yet without pain, but the elbow is getting better," she said. "A few months ago I didn't know if I was going to be able to come to Australia. I'll need a bit of time probably, to be at my best, but my motivation is high. I just have to be patient."
Belgium are unlikely to feature strongly this week as Henin lacks a partner with the experience of competing regularly on the ATP Tour. World number 178 Ruben Bemelmans found himself a little out of his depth against Lleyton Hewitt but he put up a good fight in the deciding mixed doubles rubber which Australia only just edged 1-6, 6-3, 10-8.
Hewitt was delighted to see off Bemelmans 6-4, 6-3 after missing the end of the 2010 season with injury.
"I'm just happy to get through in straight sets,” he said. “Being down break points and getting out of those situations, that's stuff you can't buy. He's a difficult opponent, he's a big ball striker and his backhand's improved since I played him in the Davis Cup last time."
