Tennis: Henman convinced he can beat Federer

Britain's Tim Henman, refusing to be overawed by the world No 1, said today he was still "absolutely" convinced he could beat triple Wimbledon tennis champion Roger Federer when they meet in the second round later tonight (NZ time).

Revelling in his role as the underdog, Henman was relieved that the crushing pressure of expectation was not on his shoulders.

But he said it was vital to go on the offensive against Federer who today broke Bjorn Borg's record 41-match grasscourt winning sequence with a scintillating 6-3 6-2 6-2 first round victory over Frenchman Richard Gasquet.

Henman put his devoted home fans through the emotional wringer when defeating his first round opponent, Sweden's Robin Soderling.

Four times a semifinalist at Wimbledon, he put in one of his typical rollercoaster performances before triumphing 6-7 6-3 6-2 1-6 6-3.

Despite his scratchy start, Henman was confidently talking the talk when reflecting on his clash with Federer.

Asked if he believed he could win, Henman said "Absolutely Yeah... I know my game matches up well."

"I've got to play my own game and try and create some opportunities, not let him dictate as much as he likes to do. When you get the opportunities, you've got to try and take them."

"With all due respect it's very much another match for me," Henman said.

"If you're talking about a favourite and an underdog, Roger will be the favourite."

But at least Henman is leading 6-4 in their matches, having most famously knocked Federer out of Wimbledon in 2001 after the young Swiss player had eliminated Pete Sampras.

- REUTERS