Tim knuckles down

Tim Henman has admitted he still has a lot of work to do if he going to win Queen's.

The British number one feels fresh after his early exit from the French Open but in battling through to the third round of the Stella Artois Championship last night he looked some way off peak form.

Henman, given a first round bye as third seed, was taken to three sets by American Robby Ginepri.

He said: "There are plenty of things to work on. There are certain areas I can improve but to play for a couple of hours in those conditions was ideal. I was disappointed to lose in Paris but on the flip side it gave me a great opportunity to practice and do some work with my coach, Paul Annacone.

"I'd like to think that will benefit me this week and hopefully a couple of weeks' time at Wimbledon."

Henman lost his opening match at Queen's to Karol Beck 12 months ago and there were ominous signs a repeat could be on the cards.

He squandered two break points early in the second set but finally wrestled control of the match in the decider to win 7-6, 4-6, 6-1.

Henman added: "I always appreciate how tough the first match is on the grass can be."