Henman off to flyer against Agassi

Tim Henman made an encouraging start to his Stella Artois Championship campaign at Queen’s Club by taking the first set 6-4 against Andre Agassi.

In baking conditions, the pair traded early breaks in the set before a long forehand by Agassi gave Henman back the advantage at 4-3.

Agassi squandered three break points before Henman recovered to wrap up the set and take the lead.

Henman pressed home his advantage in the opening game of the second set by breaking his opponent for the third time in the match to maintain control.

The home favourite’s only close call against an opponent who looked a little flat after his extended break from the circuit came in the seventh game when Agassi squandered two break-back points.

Henman held his nerve to wriggle out of danger and went on to wrap up a hugely encouraging first-round victory 6-4 6-4 in 46 minutes.