Hopes of Britain rest on Murray’s shoulders
Andy Murray prepares for his second successive Wimbledon final watched by David Cameron, Victoria Beckham and Wayne Rooney.
They are among millions supporting the Scot on Centre Court today as he takes on world number one Novak Djokovic in the Wimbledon final.
If Murray wins the match, he becomes the first Briton to lift the men’s singles trophy since Fred Perry 77 years ago.
The nation has backed the 26-year-old, and supporters in the Royal Box today also include Tana Ramsey, wife of celebrity chef Gordon; Labour leader Ed Miliband; actor Gerard Butler; and Scottish first minister Alex Salmond.
Scorching heat
Thousands of people descended on the famous All-England club to watch Murray’s second successive shot at Wimbledon history, braving scorching temperatures to catch a glimpse of the action.
The queue for the ground was full by 7am this morning, with some in it having camped since Friday to get a ticket.
Mr Cameron has wished Murray luck, saying: “I think the whole country has been incredibly impressed, not just with his skill but with his courage and his mental courage in coming through to the final yet again.
“The whole country is right behind you Andy – go for it.”
Most watched television
The Scot’s tense semi-final tie with Poland’s Jerzy Janowicz on Friday was the most-watched television moment of the year so far, according to the BBC, with a peak audience of 13.2 million people tuning in, and this afternoon’s clash is expected to draw yet more viewers.
A pair of tickets have already changed hands for £15,000, ticket website Viagogo said, with one pair listed for a staggering £71,000.
Murray has paid tribute to the support he has had at his home grand slam, and hopes to do everyone proud.
Writing on his BBC blog, the Scot said: “The support I’ve had for the last few years at Wimbledon has been great and I hope to do everyone proud….”
He added: “I need to play a very solid match from start to finish and fight for every single point, because Novak doesn’t give you too many cheap games or mistakes. I just have to be stubborn and not give too much away.”
Team Murray
He said after practising at the All England Club yesterday afternoon, he spent time with girlfriend Kim Sears and their Border terriers Maggie May and Rusty, before going through his tactics with “Team Murray” .
Fans were preparing themselves for a scorching day at SW19, with people in the queue using umbrellas in a desperate bid to shelter themselves from the blazing sun.
Murray will be supported by his usual close-knit circle, including his mother Judy Murray, girlfriend Kim Sears and coach Ivan Lendl.