Davenport will ask US Open organisers for a late start next week

French Open champion Henin-Hardenne was leading 6-0 1-0 when Davenport decided to quit because of a shoulder injury.

The American, playing just her second event back after five months out with a back problem, was in tears as she sat on court afterwards.

"I just hope that it is going to be better next week," she said.

"If I can get through the first round then maybe it will be better because I will have a day off between each round.

"Here I played five matches and didn't have a day off. It is always hard when you come back, you want to play your best, but maybe it was just too much too soon."

Davenport, who was defending her title, said she knew her shoulder was not 100% before the match began.

"I kind of knew in the warm-up, but I hoped that it was going to get better," she said.

"At the end of my match yesterday I felt it a bit and then today it sort of moved down the arm even into the wrist."

If I have to play on Monday then I will do everything I can to make sure I make the court Lindsay Davenport

The first set lasted just 22 minutes as Henin-Hardenne dominated in all areas.

Davenport left the court for treatment at the end of the set, she played just one more game and then said she could not go on.

Davenport hinted she may ask US Open organisers for a late start.

"Hopefully they will have some understanding but I know there are also a lot of other factors that go into that decision," she said.

"If I have to play on Monday then I will do everything I can to make sure I make the court.

"I will probably just rest a lot and won't hit the ball again until the warm-up before my match."

Best ever season

Henin-Hardenne was, by contrast, delighted with her condition ahead of the final Grand Slam event of the year.

She said: "I was a bit surprised after a few weeks off to come back so quickly at this level, but I had a very good time. I felt very relaxed on the court the whole week.

"Physically, I was feeling healthy, and also mentally fresh, which is important.

"It's a great season so far for me. I just hope I can keep going this way. Until now it's the best season of my career."