Other Wimbledon news in brief
Officials show symptoms of extreme caution
FOUR BALL boys and girls were asked not to turn up to work at Wimbledon yesterday after they developed flu-like symptoms. The Wimbledon committee have also asked people working on site that if they develop similar symptoms – fever, runny nose, sore throat, cough and aches – not to come in to work but consult their doctor.
The words “swine flu” have not been mentioned, however Ian Richie, the AELTC (All England Lawn Tennis Club) chief executive, advises caution, and in a press release yesterday also passed on relevant information from the Health Protection Agency.
** TEMPERATURES soared well into the 30s yesterday in London, which prompted everyone to wonder if the 1,000-ton roof would be closed on Centre Court because it was too hot. It hadn’t been used yet and there was no rain on the horizon.
But officials don’t do irony and were adamant that the roof was for rain and not sun.
“We don’t plan to use the roof as a giant sun hat, so people should be careful and take precautions,” said spokesman Johnny Perkins.
Thankfully that changed and it rained at 4.35pm during Amelie Mauresmo’s match against Dinara Safina.
History was made and a crowd went home happy.
Murray gets some support - welcome or not
WAS IT the kiss of death for Andy Murray’s chances of being the first British player since Fred Perry to win the men’s singles title when the legends rowed in yesterday?
The BBC rolled out Perry’s daughter Penny to speak about her father and Murray’s chances in this year’s competition. The Scot, she said was “spunky” and “arrogant”, traits 1936 winner Fred would have enjoyed.
Actor Sean Connery also got in touch by phone. The former 007 called his compatriot to say well done and wish him luck.
“Much nicer than someone trying to sell you a phone upgrade,” said the occasionally lugubrious player.
** FORMER LIONS coach Clive Woodward (above) was at the tennis yesterday. Wearing his Team GB performance director’s hat, the former England rugby player had words to say on the recent gouging incident involving South Africa’s Schalk Burger and Leinster’s Luke Fitzgerald.
I thought it was a very strange decision,” said Woodward. “The referee and the touchjudge were both on that side. To me it is a red card or nothing.
“I think it tainted the game, and for the guy to get cited and given a two-month suspension . . .”
