Henin Emulates Borg, Retires Young

Justine Henin retired from tennis today despite holding the WTA's No. 1 ranking. Henin's move is unexpected. In retrospect however, so shortly after her announcement, it makes so much sense. She hit the big two-five. Motivation became a problem for her, probably because her body started to slow down.

Henin, an exacting perfectionist, likely didn't want to tolerate the compromises and adjustments older athletes need to make to stay competitive against younger opponents.

Bjorn Borg set the standard for early retirements. Like Henin, he left tennis early, at 26. I wonder if his decision had any influence on her.

Oh, that Justine Henin the historians will say. She was a good one. She was a grind-it-out type of gal. Tough as nails, physically and mentally.

One interesting side note: Henin's retirement comes within 24 hours of Annika Sorenstam's retirement from golf.

A lot can happen in 24 hours. Grand Theft Auto IV made $310 million. Now two of the world's top female athletes have decided to end their careers.

Their participation will be missed. Their contributions will be remembered, fondly.