'Best wasn't good enough' says Henman

Britain's Tim Henman refused to blame the rain delays for his epic semifinal defeat by Goran Ivanisevic, saying "my best just wasn't good enough".

The sixth seed was looking to become the first British men's singles finalist since 1938 but lost a match which had started on Friday afternoon and covered a total of 44 hours.

"First and foremost it is disappointing," he said. "In the circumstances it feels like it has been a very long three days.

"But it was the same for both of us and you have to give Goran credit for the way he played."

Henman had looked to be heading for victory, leading 5-7 7-5 6-0 2-1 when rain drove the players off court on Friday.

"It was going my way then, but sometimes these breaks can help you and sometimes they can hinder you.

"At that point I was in the process of dismantling his game but the break came and he could regroup.

"Whatever situations you are in you have to deal with them.

"I gave my best but it wasn't good enough this time. I'll certainly be back next year."

Henman said he is better on grass than most players and was determined he can win the title.

"I've said I can win this tournament and nothing has happened that makes me think differently.

"I certainly feel in my heart I can win it... definitely.

"I believe in myself and my ability and nothing has changed that."

Henman said it was "very frustrating" to lose to Ivanisevic but added that he does not begrudge Ivanisevic the wildcard which has allowed him to scorch through the field.

"He certainly deserved a wildcard... in fact if it had been up to me I would have given him one.

"It is just that these were the most difficult circumstances off the court.

"I feel I dealt with it as best I could and I don't think it really affected me."