Murray is still a champion in the making

Published on Friday 3 July 2009 21:42

THE entire nation stopped what it was doing, connected to the electronic ether, then held its collective breath. From all over Britain, they willed Andy Murray to win. But sadly, 2009 was not to be his year at Wimbledon.

His opponent, Andy Roddick, played the better game. If truth were told, Roddick was practically flawless on the Centre Court. His sure touch at the net was unexpected; his ground strokes near-faultless; and his serve the ultimate wrecker of Murray's chances. But if you forget the national desire for a Briton to reach a men's singles final after so long, it was wonderful tennis.

Of course, Andy Murray will be back at Wimbledon next year and for many years after that.

Champions are not born and they do not spring fully formed out of nowhere. They are forged by endless training, iron discipline and will to win. Andy Murray has all those attributes. His time can still come and will be the sweeter for it. But why do all our hopes ride on the shoulders of Andy Murray? The dearth of British talent at Wimbledom was obvious. Murray has done his bit to attract youthful interest in the game, but it could be a long time before we see the result. But as well as more Andy Murrays, we need more Judy Murrays, not just a mum of two top players but one of the best coaches of youngsters in the world.