A Long Walk To Wimbledon*

“So critically important for Gasquet to hang in here and get a good start,” John McEnroe says.  A few seconds later Richard Gasquet drops his first service game of the match.  After seven minutes, Novak is 2 – 0 up.  Come on Richard! “It would be huge if Gasquet could sneak out this break here,” […]

Hard Times*

“So, what other matches are on today?” Seb says, taking a swig of his beer.  We are sitting in the television room of his local pub.  Or, the local pub that he is prepared to take me to anyway.  The pub a few doors down from his house is apparently “not a nice place”.  This […]

The Love Game*

“Aren’t you going to have a wash for our first meeting with your parents as an actual couple?” Seb says, a towel round his waist, hair slicked back.  Ah he smells great: fresh and clean. “No,” I say, from the sofa where I am snuggled up watching Wimbledon. “Had a wash yesterday.  They won’t expect […]

The Venus Throw*

Watching Venus.  Seb is on his way apparently.   Could wash but it seems more important to watch this match.  Venus is almost my age – she’s 35 now.  Maybe won’t have the chance to watch her too many more times.  Feeling very sad that Kauto Star has just died.  A great, great sportsman.  If […]

Heartbreak Tennis*

“I’ll let you know my movements but definitely see you later,” Seb’s message. Seb is coming back this evening.  Can’t wait to arrive home, switch on actual Wimbledon and put the artichokes on to boil.  Mum is on Centre Court – maybe will see her on the television. This morning Seb travelled with me to […]

Rope Enough*

“Right, I’m out of the door and on my way,” the message comes through from Seb at 4.04pm.  “Can’t imagine it will take me more than two and a half hours.  So: 6.30pm I reckon.  I’m training it.  Don’t feel like driving.  See you soon xxx.” “See you soon darling,” I reply.  “Please ring doorbell/ […]