Tim Henman triumphs over Thomas Enqvist; faces Ivanisevic on ice – Statoil Masters Tennis 2012
In a clash between two former world number four stars, local star Tim Henman made an epic comeback to outsmart Sweden’s Thomas Enqvist in a three-set thriller at the Statoil Masters Tennis 2012 on Wednesday. He nudged up a 6-7(4), 6-3, 11-9 victory against the Swede to prevail at this ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals) Champions Tour event taking place in London, United Kingdom.
The local legend re-kindled his spark at the Royal Albert Hall. He lifted his game after the opening set and eventually carved out the victory. As a result, Henman advanced at this tournament and stayed on course to defend his title.
The Swedish icon, who captured 19 titles on the ATP World Tour, made a convincing entry at these British courts. He swiftly plucked his entire serves facing no hindrances. Enqvist failed to capitalise on any break opportunity but dominated in the tie-breaker, eventually sealing the opener with a 7-6(4) win.
Henman made a fitting reply in the following set. He smoothly ruled his entire serves and dominated throughout the set. The Oxford native got the breakthrough near the end and subsequently clinched the equaliser with a 6-3 score line.
The 38-year-old kept momentum rolling in the Champions’ Tie-Break. He prevailed in it and subsequently pulled out the decider with an 11-9 success.
Earlier that day, Henman went on an ice rink with his old buddy, Goran Ivanisevic. Both are scheduled to play on Saturday night at this tournament.
Henman reflected about his match-up against the former world number two, "I think it would be pretty quick playing on this (ice)! It’s great to be back in London, the Statoil Masters is such a fantastic event. There’s a lot of amazing buildings and architecture in London and the Royal Albert Hall is very, very special so I always look forward to getting back out there."
The Swede on the other hand will face off Ivanisevic on Thursday evening.
Elsewhere, Fabrice Santoro got the better of the former world number eight, Mark Philippoussis, in straight sets to advance. He registered a 7-6(12), 6-3 victory against the Australian legend.
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