Henman wants to be centre of attention

Tim Henman is hoping to learn today that he had earned the right to be regarded as one of Paris’s central sporting attractions.

The British number one has never played on the main stadium at Roland Garros, Court Philippe Chatrier.

But that career ambition could be fulfilled tomorrow when he plays Spain’s Juan Carlos Ferrero, a clay-court specialist and many experts’ tournament favourite, in the third round of the French Open.

Henman marched through to a clash with last year’s beaten finalist last night after a marathon slug-fest lasting 3hrs 27mins with big pal and practice partner Todd Martin which he eventually won 7-6 5-7 6-1 7-5.

“I’d like to play on centre court here,” said Henman, who finished off his match with Martin in style with two love games and a final thundering ace.

“I’m not surprised I haven’t played on it yet because I haven’t had too many matches worthy to be on centre court. I have to earn it.”