WHY THE GRACE OF WIMBLEDON IS SO CHERISHED

WTHE cancellation of Wimbledon made big news all round the globe, an illustration of the truth that it is loved and cherished more than any other sporting event in this country.

We will miss the magnificent Centre Court duels, we will miss the timeless elegance of the tennis of Roger Federer (below). We will miss the pleasure of recognising famous old names of the sport as they walk through the milling crowds.

We will miss being so close to the action on the outside courts in the first week, marvelling at just how hard they hit the ball. Why, we will even miss the maverick star Fabio Fognini, cursing theatrically in his native Italian, to the tittering disbelief of those who understand the language.

It’s all part of the unique charm of the days you are privileged to walk through the gates of the All England Club.