Sounds of Silence

Well folks that's the big extravaganza over for another year - finishing on a superb mens final, which was the perfect advert for tennis.

In contrast, we had the ladies final no-one really wanted. With all due respect to their respective tennis abilities, having the same two sisters yet again slogging it out on the final Saturday is not compulsive viewing.

Then of course this year we had to contend with a further raising of the decibels - I would reckon that Victoria Azarenka creates a health and safety issue - for the crowd.

One has got to ask the question - how does Roger Federer play such magnificent tennis without shrieking every time he hits the ball. The answer of course is simple - it is unnecessary.

Having said there, there is an important place for correct breathing techniques on court - and experts recommend an exhalation as you make contact with the ball. But it should be relaxed, like a sigh, and start before and continue long past contact. A scream, or shriek, is tense and restrictive and just adds to your inner stress in tight situations.

In contrast, quiet deep breathing is a very useful tool, especially as a preparation to serving at vital points, or at change-overs between games.

So what other sounds will you remember form Wimbledon 2009. Well in my opinion, the 1977 Virginia is well past her 'use by' date - her voice irritates (or is it just me!). In contrast John Lloyd, Andrew Castle, Tracy Austin and Andy's mum are first class and have enhanced BBC's excellent coverage throughout the fortnight.

My final prediction for Wimbledon is that rain will never again fall on SW19 during July.

Shame about the roof.