Henman in confident mood

Tim Henman goes into tomorrow’s second round of the Italian Masters in Rome full of confidence.

After disposing of Florian Mayer 7-5 6-1 in yesterday’s opening match he now must tackle Radek Stepanek, a player 64 places below him in the world rankings.

The Czech Republic right-hander, 71st in the world, yesterday beat former Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanisevic 6-2 6-4

In the past Henman has struggled on the slower clay surfaces but his performance in Monte Carlo, where he was a quarter-finalist, have given the British number one renewed impetus.

“I made a bit of a slow start against Florian Mayer but once I got into my stride I was happy with my performance,” he said.

“It’s always tricky negotiating the first round of any tournament so I’m pleased to get through at an event I haven’t done particularly well at in the past.

“Next for me is Radek Stepanek on Wednesday so I’ll be back on the practice courts today in preparation for that test.”