Kim Clijsters, 36, has announced her return to competitive tennis after seven years out of the game.

The former world Number One will start her third playing career when the WTA Tour resumes in 2020. Clijsters initially retired from the sport before the birth of her first child in 2007 and then again in 2012 after winning three Grand Slams.  

The Belgian has won a total of four Grand Slams during her career and says she has been 'inspired' by the success of other players like Serena Williams and Victoria Azarenka who have returned to the sport after having children.

'With so many inspirational athletes and moms competing, I can’t wait to get back on the match court and see what’s possible after having three children.”

"Mothers are trying to compete at the highest level - that is the inspiration. I don't really feel like I want to prove something. I think for me it's the challenge.

My goal right now is to be able to be fit enough to compete at the highest level and then if you get to that stage, let's see if I can get to the second stage of a Grand Slam. I will continue to push myself each goal I set," she said.

Over the course of career Clijsters has won 41 WTA titles and spent 20 weeks as the World Number One. All former No.1 ranked players are entitled to unlimited wildcards in at all WTA tournaments.

During her first comeback in 2009, she entered the US Open as an unranked player and went on to win the title. She was able to defend the title the following year and added the Australian Open title in 2011.

Steve Simon, the chairman of the WTA said: "Kim Clijsters ranks among the greats of the game and her return to the Tour is exciting news for the WTA family and tennis fans around the world.

“Driven by her love for the sport, this wonderful champion continues to inspire women and men in all walks of life – and she only adds to the compelling wealth of talent in women’s tennis. I wish Kim all the best in this next chapter of her playing career.”