Murray closes in on glory

Andy Murray attempts to become the first British man to reach a Wimbledon final since before the Second World War this afternoon with his opponent insisting it will be an occasion to savour.

Not since Henry ’Bunny’ Austin was defeated in straight sets by America’s Don Budge in 1938 has a home player in the men’s singles gone the distance in SW19.

And not since Fred Perry two years earlier has a Briton won the men’s title.

Roddick, the top American who is seeded sixth, is under no illusions of what he faces.

“We might be able to count the people for me on this hand,” he said, holding up his right hand.

“But it will be something to remember. The crowd’s going to be electric. It’s going to be a great atmosphere and one I can certainly appreciate, even if it’s not for me.”