Henman dispenses with Stefanki

Tim Henman has parted company with his American coach, Larry Stefanki, and says he has no plans to replace him.

Stefanki, who teamed up with Henman in July 2001, guided the British No 1 to three ATP titles, in Basle, Adelaide and Washington DC, as well as a career-best world ranking of No 4 during their partnership. He has dropped down to No 39 in the world rankings issued yesterday, and is at No 35 in the Champions' Race, which takes into account only results from the current season.

Henman also reached finals in Rotterdam, at the Indian Wells Tennis Masters Series and at the Stella Artois Championships under Stefanki's guidance. But now he believes it is time to go it alone.

"It's been a fantastic experience working with Larry, who has been a good friend as well as my coach over the last two years," Henman said. "We've worked together on some effective technical and tactical changes, which have given my game an extra dimension.

"I feel now that I simply need to concentrate on competing and winning matches, which is something I think I can do on my own. I have already had the experience of travelling without a coach and enjoyed the freedom of that very much.

"Over the last couple of years, Larry has become a very good friend, which I hope will continue into the future."

* Prakash Amritraj will replace Leander Paes in India's forthcoming Davis Cup World Group qualifying tie in the Netherlands. Paes, 30, is having treatment for a non-malignant brain lesion.