Match-fixing claims concern Henman

12 April 2012

Tim Henman has voiced concerns over the match-fixing allegations that have cast a shadow over tennis - but he insists there is no gambling "epidemic" in the sport.

Fears of corruption have been raised in recent months, with players coming forward revealing they have been approached, but Henman believes the problem is on a small scale.

"It's very serious allegations and players have obviously been approached because they've said as much," he said on BBC Five Live's Sportsweek. "We don't want that anywhere near our sport. It's never happened to me and I never saw it happen and if it has happened I think it's been on a small number of occasions."

He added: "We have to make sure that we are aware of it taking place and stamp it out. But to say there is a gambling problem or an epidemic in the sport, in my opinion that couldn't be further from the truth."

Henman is just over two months into his retirement and ruled himself out of joining Andy Murray's support team after the young Scot split with American coach Brad Gilbert.

He has backed Miles Maclagan to continue helping Murray.

"I wasn't surprised (Murray and Gilbert split), having seen it from close quarters they were always going to have a fiery relationship," Henman added. "They achieved a lot in a short period of time.

"Obviously Miles Maclagan is out with Andy, I've known him for years, he is a young guy and knows the game and I would give that a chance.

"There needs to be a good relationship there and they need to communicate well, that's what didn't work with Brad and Andy.

"If you are living in each others' pockets you have to handle that aspect of life. Brad and Andy have strong ideas about the game and over time it was that type of communication that broke down."

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