Tim Henman overcame stomach cramps and a spirited fightback by unknown Jan Vacek from the Czech Republic to take his place in the second round of the US Open at Flushing Meadow. The British number one eventually came through this awkward first round encounter 6-3 6-2 6-7 3-6 6-3 in over three hours, but against such a low-ranked opponent Henman was in danger of making a shock exit.
The Briton stormed into a two-set lead against Vacek, who was clearly suffering from stage fright in the early exchanges, but in typical fashion a lapse in concentration saw Henman concede the next two sets. In fairness Henman was hampered by stomach cramps and had to receive on-court treatment as he watched his lead whittled away by the resurgent Czech in sets three and four.
But after a rain delay the Oxford-born ninth seed steadied himself to serve out the match after a series of breaks in the decider.
Filed by Shane Murray
