Henman back in the groove

Players Under the Microscope / Editor / 25 April 2007 / Leave a Comment

Tim Henman is targeting a return to action at the Rome Masters after making a successful comeback from a recent back injury.

Britain's number two played through the pain as he suffered a first-round defeat to Spain's Juan Carlos Ferrero on the clay courts of Monte Carlo and was then told to rest on medical advice.

But the six-time Grand Slam semi-finalist came through a practice session unscathed this week and is now hoping to up his form and match fitness ahead of the Campionati Internazionali d'Italia in Rome which starts on May 7.
"I had a hit on Monday and my back felt fine," Henman told his official website.

"It wasn't particularly gruelling but the good news was that there wasn't any reaction yesterday.
"So I'm going to gradually increase the amount of time I spend on the match court while also continuing with my gym work, and hopefully I'll be alright.

"Generally speaking, playing on clay is a bit better for me as it's a bit more forgiving - the downside is that when you're under a lot of pressure it's a bit tougher to remain completely stable because of all the sliding around.
"But I enjoy it so hopefully I'll be fit for Rome."

Henman made a delayed start to his 2007 campaign and then suffered early exits at the Las Vegas, Indian Wells and Miami events before injury curtailed his participation in Monte Carlo.

Despite having made the semi-finals at Roland Garros in 2004, the 32-year-old has never been comfortable on the slow surface and is unlikely to feature near the top of the winner's market at either Rome or the French Open.

However, his return to fitness is a major boost ahead of Wimbledon, starting on June 25, where he has always been popular in the markets. Although he is now past his best, he has reached the last four at SW19 four times and is sure to be the subject of plenty of interest on what is sure to be another emotional roller-coaster.