THOSE 50 weeks have flashed by once again.
With significant changes since I left the All England Club at midnight following Rafael Nadal’s 2008 Men’s Singles triumph.
Work on the retractable Centre Court roof has been completed.
And the new No 2 Court is also open for business.
There’s a real buzz of anticipation at Wimbledon with exactly 48 hours to go before the scheduled start of the 2009 Championships.
Sadly, Rafa won’t be stepping out on to Centre Court on Monday afternoon to defend his crown.
Even at the draw yesterday morning, there was little anticipation that he’d be able to take part.

A fact the 23-year-old Spaniard confirmed in the same press conference room just after 7pm last night.
Ruled out by tendinitis in his knees.
His absence is a big blow to the event – both on and off court.
No-one gives post-match interviews quite like Rafa.

Those backing Andy Murray to claim a historic win at SW19 will know his chances are that much better with Nadal out of his half of the draw.
But there’s a very long way to go yet.
I took a tour around the grounds yesterday, with much to admire.
Taking a few pics for you along the way.
Centre Court now has a capacity of 15,000 with all new wider and padded seats.
With the prospect of matches being played to a finish in the evening under the roof and lights if sanctioned by the Referee.
The “protocol for the use of the roof” states: “The Championships is an outdoor daytime event”.
But it also includes this statement:
“Any match started will normally be completed and, if necessary, the roof closed for reasons of light as well as rain.”
Which leaves open the possibility of evening finishes after dark.
Will a late night Murray five set thriller delay the BBC 10pm News?

I’m very impressed with the new No 2 Court, which has a capacity of over 4,000.
The playing surface is sunk 3.5 metres below ground level so as not to spoil the views of Wimbledon’s neighbours.
This is one arena court which should generate quite an atmosphere.
Compare and contrast the progress made since I posted photos in this blog exactly a year ago today.
The “old” No 2 court is now Court 3.
The other “southern” courts have been re-numbered in sequence – with no Court 13.
Maximum ground capacity is now 40,000.
Click here to check out more photos.
Or click here for a short slideshow.
You can check out a smaller version of the slideshow at the bottom of this blog.
As usual, I’ll be covering Wimbledon every day – and night – for both the hard copy MEN and online.
So check back here next week to serve up the inside story.
Along with my Twitter feed.
It should be quite a fortnight.


Wimbledon 2006
Wimbledon 2007
Wimbledon 2008
Wimbledon 2009
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