Living in the past

The men's final at Wimbledon tomorrow will be contested between Serbia's Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray of Great Britain (or Scotland depending on the strength of your feelings). It is hard not to explore the parallels of nearly a century ago.

Serbia was then a part of the Austro-Hungarian empire and a few radical diehards yearned for a separate Serbian state. One of them succeeded - eventually. The assassination which triggered the First World War was carried out by a young Serbian nationalist. The ensuing loss of life was catastrophic. Next year, we shall be bombarded with reminders of the anniversary of the war to end all wars. Hopeful words as it turns out. On 5th June 2006, Serbia was eventually granted independence in its own right, fully 92 years after that first shot in 1914 which was the catalyst for so much death and suffering.

Next year, the Scots decide on their future within the Union. By coincidence, next year will mark the 700th anniversary of the Battle of Bannockburn. This was one of the biggest Scottish victories in the ongoing fight for Scottish independence. Have no doubt, Alex Salmond will use this for all it is worth as he embarks on his campaign to persuade his electorate to ditch Westminster and the Union.

Back to the tennis. The Wimbledon crown seems at last to be warming to Murray. P.G. Wodehouse famously observed that "it is never difficult to distinguish between a Scotsman with a grievance and a ray of sunshine". Although this might seem a little churlish with reference to Murray, I don't think being popular is at the forefront of his thoughts anyway. It is the latter which will serve him well tomorrow as he seeks to take on one of the finest players to have ever picked up a racket. It will be very hot and this, I suspect, will suit neither player. Many predict the match will go to five sets although I am not so sure. Whoever wins will win in four sets. They have both just had to negotiate particularly arduous semi finals and I question how much they have left in the tank. Murray has the recent experience of winning his Olympic Gold medal here but his opponent has the experience of winning Wimbledon here. Both men are at the top of their game and there is little to separate them. For temperament, I go for Djokovic. For sheer bloody-mindedness I can't see beyond Murray laying to rest the ghost of Fred Perry at long last. Whatever the outcome, it is sure to be a cracker. From the standpoint of a neutral, it is always good to see a new champion so Murray would be a popular winner - and very definitely British..