2004 Oct 25 - Henman chasing Masters Cup place

Tim Henman is on a course of magnesium tablets following blood tests after he crashed out in the third round of Tennis Masters Madrid due to a lack of energy.

With the problem identified the British No.1 is set to play at the Davidoff Swiss Indoors Basel in Switzerland starting 25th October as he attempts to qualify for the end of season Tennis Masters Cup in Houston, USA.

Tim said on his personal website:

"My blood tests showed that I need to top up my magnesium levels, that was why I wasn't feeling my best.

"I'm relieved it's nothing serious and it's nice to be back in Basel."

Russian Marat Safin relegated Tim to seventh in the Champions Race with his win over Argentine David Nalbandian in the final of the Tennis Masters Madrid. As only the top seven are guaranteed to take part in the Tennis Masters Cup (although the eighth position is usually granted a place) it is imperative that Tim retains his points advantage over the chasers, which include: Andre Agassi, Gaston Gaudio and David Nalbandian.

Tim added:

"Even though I'm in seventh place, I'm still in a qualifying spot.

"And I feel like I'm in a strong position with two weeks to go."

Frenchman Anthony Dupuis will be Tim's opponent in the first round in Basel. They have met twice previously with Tim winning both matches, including Basel in 2001 when Tim went on to win the tournament for the second time in his career.