Tim Henman sets up final clash with Fabrice Santoro – Statoil Masters Tennis 2012
Local legend, Tim Henman, will face off the French veteran, Fabrice Santoro, in the final showdown at the Statoil Masters Tennis 2012, an ATP Champions Tour event taking place in London, United Kingdom.
The defending champion, Henman, bounced back from a set down to outrun the Croatian legend, Goran Ivanisevic. He found his momentum in the second set and eventually sealed the deal with a 4-6, 6-2, 10-6 victory against the Croat.
Henman stated in a post match press conference, "I have loved playing here this evening in front of such special company. I'm glad we could put on a good show, and of course I'm glad I'm in the final. I am feeling fit and I'm playing well, better than last year I think. I'm still glad we get a tie break for a third set though! I love playing Goran always and I think we both have special memories of that match at Wimbledon..."
The former world number two, Ivanisevic made quick in-roads at the Royal Albert Hall. He ruled throughout the set after hitting powerful forehands from his box of tricks. As a result, the Croat bagged the opener with a 6-4 win.
Henman rebounded in the following set. He re-structured his strategy and ultimately carved out the equaliser with a 6-2 score line.
The former world number four, Henman kept momentum sailing in the Champions’ Tie-Break. He cruised to take the initial lead and then held his composure, eventually pocketing the decider with a 10-6 success.
The French veteran on the other hand overpowered the former world number one, Carlos Moya from Spain. He eased past the Spanish legend with a 6-2, 6-3 success to secure a place in the title-round. Santoro will celebrate his 40th birthday on the final day at this event.
Santoro reflected, “When you change decade it’s always a special feeling but to be on the court at the Royal Albert Hall - there’s no better place to be.”
The two stars battled each other for eight times in their career with Henman leading 6-2 in the head-to-head series against the former world number 17.
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