Henman has to hang fire

Tim Henman will have to wait until Tuesday before launching his assault on the French Open.

The British number two’s name did not appear on the order of play for Monday, meaning he will join reigning champion Rafael Nadal in kicking off his campaign at Roland Garros on the third day of competition.

Constant rain disrupted much of Sunday’s opening day, with only around three hours play possible in total.

More rain is forecast for the next four days, so Henman’s first-round clash against Latvian teenager Ernests Gulbis could even stretch into Wednesday.

Henman is desperate to get some game time under his belt after an injury-plagued season, and is “raring to go” after some decent practice sessions with the likes of world number one Roger Federer and 2004 champion Gaston Gaudio.

Despite having one eye on forthcoming grass-court campaign, the Oxford-born 32-year-old believes he is well equipped to be competitive on the dirt.

“Clay might not be my favourite surface but my game has improved on it a lot over the years, so I’m looking forward to the French,” Henman said.

“I’m hitting the ball well in practice and I know I’m still capable of playing good tennis, and hopefully I’ll get a few games under my belt in France.

“If not I’ll get ready for Queens and Wimbledon.”

Henman admitted a reduced burden of expectation following fellow Briton Andy Murray’s rise up the rankings could benefit him in this year’s tournament.

“My expectations are a little bit less and the pressure is slightly less,” said Henman, who is currently ranked 53 in the world.

“I do enjoy that but that’s not to say I don’t want to get back to the top.

“I don’t think there’s a lot wrong with my game. I still believe I can win tournaments because on any given day I can beat pretty anyone.”

Federer, looking to win his first French Open title, opens his campaign today when he takes on America’s Michael Russell on the showcase Philippe Chatrier court.