The BBC has hit back at newspaper reports suggesting it was responsible for Tim Henman's exit from Wimbledon.

The Daily Mirror claimed the corporation had influenced the All England Club's decision to put Henman's semi-final with Goran Ivanisevic second on court in a move to boost television ratings.

However, the claims were dismissed by the BBC.

"TV offers an opinion, but the final decision always rests with the referee and the All England Club," said a BBC spokeswoman.

"TV has no veto over the order of play," she said.

The American and Australian television networks were also consulted, along with the BBC, but none had any influence over the final outcome.

The British number one's match followed Pat Rafter's victory over Andre Agassi - and was hit by rain on Friday as Henman led two sets to one.

On Saturday, Henman and Ivanisevic were once more hit by the weather as the Croat claimed the fourth set.

Ivanisevic eventually emerged as a finalist on Sunday after winning the fifth and final set, 6-3.