Tournament favourite Henman cruised into the second round after saving two break points in the third game of the second set to beat Dutchman Sjeng Schalken 6-2 6-3.

"It was the best possible start to the new year," Henman said.

"I was pleased with the way last year ended, and since then I have had a good chance to work on things in London." he added.

Henman is seeded one and British number two Greg Rusedski is seeded two - making Qatar the first tour tournament in which the organisers have predicted an all-British final.

The Qatar event is also significant in marking the start of the final year of the men's singles game in its current form.

Changes brought into effect from the year 2000 will include an elite set of tournaments in which players will have to compete to establish their world rankings from a starting point of zero.