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Tim Henman insisted he will play on for the foreseeable future despite suffering a heavy defeat against Roger Federer at Wimbledon on Wednesday.

The Briton lost 6-4 6-0 6-2 in one hour 24 minutes as he made a second-round exit for the second year in a row.

But Henman, 31, said: "I definitely see myself playing a few more years."

He added: "I love what I do and I still think there are plenty of challenges for me, and I don't think it would be to my benefit to cut down my schedule."


Interview: Roger Federer


And Henman believes his injury problems last year have left him with an opportunity to make up lost ranking points in the coming months.

"(My priority is) getting my ranking back up and having a full schedule for the rest of the year," he said. "This time last year I really struggled.

I think he should stay in the game and I'd be very surprised if this was his last Wimbledon

Roger Federer

"I played a few tournaments but I was in such poor shape physically with my back, I want to take advantage and see how far that can take me between now and the end of the year."

The four-time semi-finalist admitted that he felt sorry for the Centre Court crowd.

"It's been such a good place for me and the fans have been so fantastic," he said.

"There's disappointment for myself but also an element of disappointment for them that I couldn't give them more to get involved in.

"Unfortunately, Roger had a lot to do with that because he was just too good today, it's just as simple as that, but I definitely hope to be out there again."

Federer was delighted with the win and believes he is playing better than ever at such an early stage of the Championships.

And the Swiss star had encouraging words for Henman, a good friend.

"I think he should stay in the game and I'd be very surprised if this was his last Wimbledon," said Federer.

"He's got family, he's married, he's had a great career - it's his choice you know. In my opinion I think he can easily play another year.

"You can cut down a few tournaments and add a few more years to your career, that's what I'd suggest, but it has nothing to do with me. It's his life."

In all seriousness, Murray has that certain something that Henman lacks. I think its a winner's mentality. But his lack of coach could have a massive impact on his career. The perception of Murray is one of arrogance - which in itself is no bad thing - but if there is not a willingness to learn from experienced coaches, then he will stay in the "what might have been " section forever more.

Thanks for the offer pikeylass I choose to read arrogance, lots of it!!
He isn't even that good, all you have to do is get him to a 4th and 5th set and wait for him to quit with cramp.

For a change abuse from north of the border for believing in ourselves