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  • Henman says night-time not the right time for Wimbledon

    6/17/09 2:06 PM | Johan Lindahl
    Henman says night-time not the right time for Wimbledon Tim Henman has struck a blow for Wimbledon traditionalism, appealing to the All England club not to go down the slippery slope to night play now the the Centre court roof is in place.

    The BBC commentator said on the eve of the tournament: "I think it's right there are no night sessions. It's an outdoor tournament and they are going to make every effort to play outdoors".

    "When you talk about Wimbledon, it's the greatest spectacle in the game. I don't think you need to get away from the heritage of it. Wimbledon is so good because they get the balance right as the tradition is so important".

    The 34-year-old who stalled at four semi-finals at the event, will be in the broadcast booth for the second year along with colleagues John McEnroe and Boris Becker.

    Henman worries that Wimbledon could someday follow the path of the Australian Open, which has two courts with moveable roofs. Night sessions in Melbourne have broken all records, with a 2008 Lleyton Hewitt match finishing just before dawn after starting around midnight.

    "The roof will be fantastic", said Henman of the newest Wimbledon improvement. "To have the opportunity of guaranteeing play not only for the players but for the fans and the media with television is brilliant".

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