Henman on a roll with lucky routine

Tim Henman admits he is a sucker for superstitions, such as using the same locker-room shower and the same restaurant at night when things are going to plan. Fingers crossed, all is well for Henman at the French Open so far.

He surprised even himself by defeating Sjend Schalken of Holland 6-4, 6-2, 6-2 in the second round yesterday.

It was probably as impressive a performance as Henman has produced on clay and two wins have given him the belief that he can make a significant advance in a championship in which he has never gone beyond three rounds.

He said: 'I sometimes keep up stupid rituals, showering in the same place, eating sushi in a Japanese bar, holding three tennis balls and always putting my bag in the same place on court. You try to do things the same way when you are winning and hopefully I can keep it going.'

Henman has also become a crowd favourite. Where once Parisian crowds scornfully turned their backs on British players, now they are shouting for him.

'Teem, Teem,' they cry - and he loves it.

'I think people see something different when I play,' he added. 'Fans become quickly bored with baseline tennis when there can be between 20 and 30-shot rallies. I hope they like me because I'm not afraid to attack.

'It's a challenge, a great opportunity to improve my game. I think I am starting to prove to myself and perhaps to others that I can be successful on this surface.

'After all, it is the greatest preparation for Wimbledon. If you can serve and volley well on this stuff, it should be that bit easier on grass.'

The British No.1, who now faces Argentinian Guillermo Canas, had just one crisis in the match. He saved four break points at 4-4 in the opening set to hold his serve and was never in trouble again.