BBC SPORT | Tennis | Henman misses Edberg showdown

Tim Henman has been forced to pull out of an appearance at next week's Honda Challenge at London's Royal Albert Hall.

The British number one had been due to face former Wimbledon champion Stefan Edberg in a charity exhibition match on Thursday 5 December.

But after undergoing shoulder surgery earlier this month, Henman has had to miss out to continue his rehabilitation.

Stefan Edberg
Edberg will now have a new opponent

"It's really frustrating because it's a unique arena and to play Edberg, who was a hero of mine growing up, would have been really good," said Henman.

"It's a great event and I'm sure I'll be back playing there in future years."

Organisers of the Honda Challenge are searching for a suitable replacement to take on Edberg.

"We are obviously very sorry that Tim won't be able to join the action this year and we wish him the speediest of recoveries," said Tournament Director, John Beddington.

I'm sure I will be able to get back on court soon and prepare for the Australian Open

Tim Henman

Although he is unable to compete, Henman has confirmed that he will be at the Royal Albert Hall to greet fans on the night of the match.

Henman, who started rehabilitation work within four days of his operation, is pleased with the way his recovery is going.

"With all the rehab that I'm doing I'm sure I will be able to get back on court pretty soon and prepare for the Australian Open."

He also described the Davis Cup tie against Australia as a major incentive to get fit.

"I'm just going to do everything I can to get ready as quickly as possible and if I'm not ready I'm not ready, it's as simple as that. But I stress that I'm very optimistic and positive of being fit," he said.


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