Clijsters to lead Belgium

ANTWERP, Belgium (AP):

Her Australian Open trophy in tow, Kim Clijsters is leading a strong Belgian team against an injury-depleted United States in the Fed Cup this weekend.

Belgium would have been an overwhelming favourite to reach the quarter-finals, but the sudden retirement of Justine Henin last week leaves the match more balanced against a US team that has reached the last two finals without the injured Williams sisters.

Clijsters, who beat Li Na for her fourth Grand Slam title last weekend, said yesterday she still lacked sleep after her long trip home from Melbourne. However, she expects to be ready to play the opening singles on Saturday, on an indoor hard court.

"I was able to make the switch real fast," Clijsters said.

Her Australian Open cup will be prominently displayed at the 12,500-capacity Antwerp Sports Palace.

Based on ranking, No. 48 Bethanie Mattek-Sands and No. 61 Melanie Oudin of the US should be no match for No. 2 Clijsters and No. 26 Yanina Wickmayer.

The Americans will be targeting the Wickmayer match on the opening day. After two singles on Saturday, there will be reverse singles and a possible deciding doubles on Sunday.

The US record in recent years shows they haven't needed the Williams sisters to advance. They reached the last two finals, losing each to Italy.

Venus Williams is sidelined after injuring her groin at the Australian Open, while Serena has been out with a foot injury since Wimbledon.

The US team also includes Vania King and doubles specialist Liezel Huber.