Tim Henman has failed to hold on to his title at the Sydney international tennis tournament. The British number two was beaten in straight sets by Slovakian Karel Kucera, 7-5, 6-4.

Tim Henman: one less racket (32")

Although he missed out on a morale boosting triumph before next week's Australian Open, Henman has said that he still feels optimistic. "My preparations have been ideal," he said.

Henman puts a brave face on failure

"I have had a lot of matches here this week and I feel very confident going into the Australian Open.

"It's been a good week for me and I made a great start to the match to break his serve, but Karol did not make many mistakes and managed to turn the match around," he said.

The British number two looked set for an impressive triumph as he raced to a 4-0 lead in the defence of his title.

But his game suddenly disintegrated in the windy conditions and Kucera, ranked at No. 25, won four straight games to tie the set at 4-4. He then broke in the 11th game to take a 6-5 lead.

A surpise victory for the 23-yr-old Slovakian

Henman's service began to falter late in the first set. Kucera then held the 11th game, finishing on an ace to take the set 7-5.

Kucera's comeback in the first set demoralised Henman, who raised his hands in frustration several times and then threw down his racket when he returned to his seat.

Henman, ranked No. 17 in the world, had reached the final of the Australian Open warm-up after beating World No. 2, Australian Pat Rafter 7-6 (7-5) 7-5.
 

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