Murray Magic

Now I'm going to have a little blast at 'Middle England' so don't read on if you're a bit posh or have so called impeccable standards.
The other day I heard a cultured female voice on the radio lambasting Andy Murray - not because of his tennis (she admitted she knew nothing about sport) but because of his image and personality.  Now we all know that Andy is a bit rough round the edges (just like myself), and doesn't come over too well on the telly.  But, I thought to myself, how sad that people are judged purely on their television image.  Of course at Wimbledon time, the once a year tennis 'fans' watch nothing else for two weeks, but for many its eye candy they're after, not to appreciate the quality of tennis.
Andy is a talent we have not seen on these shores for a very long time.  On court, he has a superb range of strokes, a brilliant tactical brain, and his athleticism is now up there with the best.  Off court, he has admirable work ethic and total committment. And you never hear him bad mouthing any of his fellow professionals - he is always quick to praise other players and show utmost respect.
Last week, Virginia Wade described him as 'drama queen'.  Ok so what!  What's wrong with showing emotion, having a few tantrums, and wearing your heart on your sleeve.  Virginia - your time is up - you live in the 'jolly good show' past, of long white trousers and frilly knickers.  It's time to hang up your wooden racket.
Andy Murray meets Roger Federer in tomorrow's final at Wimbledon.  I am not a great Federer fan - he is too ostentatious, self assured, dare I say 'smug'.  But he is one of the greatest players of all time, and Andy will do well to take a set off him.
I hope the crowd will all be behind Andy - he will respond to that.  But whatever happens, he deserves praise and regnition from all quaters (and all classes!)for what he has achieved in the game.