Henman: why I want to go solo

Tim Henman today revealed the reasons behind his decision to part company with coach Larry Stefanki after two years together.

The American enjoyed considerable success with Henman, who departs tomorrow for Britain's Davis Cup tie with Morocco in Casablanca.

But the pair had started to drift apart since the British No1 returned from a shoulder operation at the start of this year. It was seen as the beginning of the end of the partnership and that has proved to be the case.

Henman said today: "I have worked with Larry on the technical aspects of my game and that's now in place. I don't need to be told how to do things at the moment because it's all there.

"I know the type of game and the style I want to produce and it will be up to me to do that. I like to work it out myself."

The move opens the way for a possible reunion with David Felgate, the Lawn Tennis Association's performance director.

Although neither would be interested in regular contact, the fact that Henman's former mentor will be available when the British No1 trains at Queen's Club has obvious advantages.

Felgate took over his new role earlier this year and wants to be involved with on-court training as well as finding a winning formula for the British game.

He was responsible for taking Henman from an unknown player to No5 in the rankings and the pair have maintained a close friendship despite splitting in April 2001.

Henman also revealed that the Davis Cup tie, which starts on 19 September, will take him back to the same Casablanca stadium where he earned his first world ranking points as a professional 11 years ago.

Henman added: "I am really excited about this tie and I can't wait to get back out there. I earned three points at that first tournament and it was a big moment in my career.

"Now we have to win this tie to stay in the world group against two very good Moroccan players. I know that Greg Rusedski has dropped down to number 110 but that's because he has been injured. The ranking is not important."