OXfordshire's Tim Henman has finally beaten his best friend and greatest rival Pete Sampras in a tournament.

The British No 1, from Weston-on-the-Green, saw off the Wimbledon champion in straight sets, 6-3 6-4, in the third round of the ATP Masters Series in Cincinnati.

It was the first time that Henman had overcome the world No 2 in seven tournament clashes.

A delighted Henman said: It's great to finally beat him after coming close so many times.

Sampras said: He played great and served well. He played some unbelievable passing shots. I let the match slip away after a good start. He was too good for me. I never found any rhythm on serve. Tim's capable, he's got a very complete game. It's just a matter of putting it together.

Henman admitted: This was my biggest win. It's my best individual effort. It has been a long time coming but it's great to get a victory against him.

Their rivalry began in 1994 in Tokyo when Henman was a rookie, aged 20. Their earlier most recent meeting came in the 1999 Wimbledon semi-finals. Before this clash, the American had won 15 sets against his rival, losing just three.

But Henman said: I tried to go in positive. You can't think about the six previous defeats. You cannot dwell on the losses. I took my chances and got the victory, it was very satisfying.

The British ace now faces Frenchman Fabrice Santoro.