Andy Murray v Stan Wawrinka - Wimbledon’s Centre Court Roof an instant success
Last updated 30/06/2009 09:25:29
Andy Murray v Stan Wawrinka - Wimbledon Centre Court Roof an instant success
Is there anything more infuriating to a Wimbledon tennis fan than to have hold of precious Wimbledon Centre Court tickets only to see the match of the day terminated by bad weather.
Often the only answer is to watch the conclusion of the match you called your own on television next day while the next day ticket holders gain an unexpected bonus.
Well, no more, the magnificent £100 million roof – complete with toy parrot left by a quirky builder – was gloriously christened by Britain's number one Andy Murray with a five set epic victory over his Swiss hitting mate Stan Wawrinka, finishing at 10.38 in front of not only a packed crowd but also a packed Henman Hill.
Oh yes, I forgot to mention that it was a glorious mid summer evening at the time with the sun of burnished gold gradually slipping beyond the horizon leaving the beautifully designed roof glowing in all its glory.
Inevitably there are one or two tricky little problems – most of them human – to be sorted, like when to tell the players they will be performing under completely different conditions.
Murray and Wawrinka had warmed up outside and were fully expecting the roof, which had been closed for the conclusion of the ladies singles between number one see Dinara Safina and former champion Amelie Mauresmo, to be open on such a splendid night.
The few spots of rain, not faintly predicted, had vaporised along with the clouds but the decision had to be made whether to delay the men's singles while the roof was reopened or to get it underway with a certain finish even though it would be tough on the surprised contestants.
Tough, chaps! This is what you are going to have to get used to, particularly if you serve up drama and tension in such bucket loads when it does happen.
Goodness knows what the drivers of the special buses and shared taxis thought about the late hour and the overtime, but there was no doubting the verdict of the fans still at the All England Club, with the exception of those who had to clear up, it was a massive thumbs up.
From the players perspective, a drained but victorious Murray admitted he was surprised to play under the roof and, despite the air conditioning, found it hot, humid and very sweaty.
But he also paid tribute to his growing legion of fans who saw it out both on court and at home watching television, saying: "The atmosphere was great. It's always special when you play indoors, but when you've got 15,000 people supporting you, it's even more so.
"I still like Wimbledon being a daytime event though!"
Better get used to it Andy, that roof is here to stay with a lot more exciting nights in prospect.