Tennis: Henman heads for Hannover

TIM HENMAN has moved into eighth place in the race to the ATP Tour Championship in Hannover after successfully defending the President's Cup in Tashkent yesterday, defeating Russia's Yevgeny Kafelnikov, 7-5, 6-4.

Although Henman's world ranking remains at No 11, based on his 14 best tournaments over a rolling 52-week period, only this season's results earn qualification for the eight-man ATP Tour finale from 23-29 November.

The British No 1, who recovered from a stomach upset to defeat Kafelnikov, was fortunate in the opening set. Kafelnikov, serving for the set, hit three double-faults, and Henman then had a lucky net cord. On match point, Kafelnikov hit a good passing shot as Henman attacked, the Briton launching himself at the ball and landing a volley over the net.

"It was not a classic confrontation by any means," Henman said, "but I'm pleased."