Injured Clijsters plans to play in Australian Open

SYDNEY, Australia -- Kim Clijsters plans to play in the Australian Open, even though her injured left ankle might eventually require surgery.

Clijsters, seeded second for the year's first Grand Slam tournament, injured the ankle at last week's Hopman Cup and spent the next few days on crutches.

The Belgian was encouraged after a light run Sunday, and she hoped to get a match in at this week's Adidas International tuneup event. She said playing this week would determine her playing status at the Australian Open, which starts Jan. 19.

"I'll have to play with tape -- that's something I'll probably have to do for the rest of my career," Clijsters said. "It's something that's not going to go away. I might have to have some surgery."

Clijsters, ranked No. 1 for three months last season, is 0-for-3 in Grand Slam finals. Countrywoman Justine Henin-Hardenne is currently ranked No. 1.

At last year's Australian Open, Clijsters lost in the semifinals to Serena Williams after blowing two match points and a 5-1 lead in the third set.

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