Henman backs Murray to win Wimbledon

Andy Murray has been backed to win Wimbledon this summer by former British number one Tim Henman.

The 22-year-old Scot was a beaten semi-finalist in 2009 as Andy Roddick went through to the final in four sets, only to be beaten in 16-14 in the fifth set of a marathon encounter with Roger Federer.

Murray reached his second grand slam final at January's Australian Open, only for world number one Federer to triumph once again and claim his 16th grand slam title.

However, Henman believes Murray - currently preparing for the French Open at Roland Garros - could conquer all at SW19 this summer.

"I really think Wimbledon could be Murray's," said Henman.

"He played great last year getting through to his first semi and I think he was very disappointed to lose to Roddick.

"All credit to Roddick for the match that he played because it was phenomenal.

"But I think Murray's matured again, he's improved, his game is better, he's got 12 months more experience and I think he's got every chance of winning what would potentially be his first Grand Slam title."

Henman carried the hopes of the nation for almost a decade and went close to reaching the Wimbledon final in 2001, only to lose his rain-affected semi-final with Goran Ivanisevic, which took place over three days.

Ivanisevic yesterday signed up for the AEGON Masters Tennis at the Royal Albert Hall, which takes place from November 30 to December 5, and there could be a rematch of the famous Wimbledon contest at the ATP Champions Tour event.

Henman added: "I'll look forward to playing him again and hopefully beating him this time."

Defending champion Pat Rafter, a two-time Wimbledon finalist including against Ivanisevic in 2001, has joined Henman and the Croatian in signing up for the London event.