Tim Henman walked out of Wimbledon and into retirement after dominating a British Davis Cup victory yesterday.

The man who reached four semi-finals at the SW19 grand slam was given an almost fanatical ovation as he circled the No 1 court with his four-year-old daughter Rosie, after hitting the winning shot against Croatia.

The result, achieved in four sets, means Britain will now return to the elite World Group for the first time since 2003.

While emotional players and spectators fought back tears after the match, 33-year-old Henman said: "It's occasions like this and fans like this that I will miss so much.

"I thought to myself I'd have the day off on Sunday, but then I remembered I have a few of those coming up now!

"I knew how important this match was for the team, not just me. I've had a few good scripts over the years but this is right up there. Hitting the winner to seal the Davis Cup victory is brilliant."

Playing alongside Tiger Tim in the historic match was Jamie Murray, who shot to fame when he was crowned mixed doubles champ at the All-England Club earlier this year.

During that tournament the up-and-coming player spent his nights crashing on the floor of his friend and fellow British player Jamie Delgado, who lives in Princes Way, Southfields.

The honours were split in today's final two singles matches, meaning Britain secured an overall 4-1 victory.