Richard Evans sees Henman defeated in Stuttgart (Radio 5 Live)

The British No.1 produced an inconsistent performance in the third round clash, as he attempted to secure his place as one of the top eight players who qualify for the prestigious ATP World Championship in Hanover next month.

Ultimately his failure in two tie-breaks proved decisive for Henman, as he lost 7-6 (7-2) 1-6 7-6 (7-5).

Henman was facing an uphill battle after the big-serving Gambill took the opening set tie-break.

The Briton managed to find his form in the second set, which he won 6-1 to level the match at one set all.

But Henman lost that and found himself under pressure in the deciding third set and had to save three break points on his serve at 3-4 down.

He held his serve at 5-6 to force a final set tie-break but Gambill quickly seized the initiative to lead 4-0.

Gambill had three match points at 6-3 up but ninth-seed Henman fought back to 5-6 before Gambill held his serve to take the match.