It really is no surprise that British sportsmen and sportswomen often have such poor records of success when one sees and hears today's news. Far from being full of actual news, the media is obsessed with stories about what might happen at Wimbledon this afternoon.
On Friday, Andy Murray won his semi-final match and became the first Briton to reach the mens' singles final since 1938. In true nationalistic style, I've heard Alex Salmond refer to him being the first Scot for 116 years to be in this position, which really puts this idiot's attitude in perspective. Nonetheless, Murray's achievement on Friday was 'news' and was duly reported in Saturday's newspapers and other media.
So far today, there is no news about this story. Having cameras following Murray around and listening to anyone and everyone talking about whether or not Murray 'can' win or 'will' win is not news; it is a pointless exercise in space-filling. It is also adding to the already considerable pressure and weight of expectation on Murray's shoulders and must make success less, rather than more, likely.
Murray is far from being alone is receiving this ridiculous level of attention from the media. Our golfers are routinely built up prior to the major championships and we will no doubt be told very soon what a great chance there is that Rory McIlroy, Lee Westwood, Luke Donald and the rest will win the Open at Lytham later this month. Our football, rugby and cricket teams always have unrealistic expectations placed upon them and I fear for all of those Britons who are taking part in this year's Olympic Games; listening to the media, we will head the medals table, Mo Farah will win double gold, Jess Ennis will be the darling of the Games, our cyclists will sweep the board as will our rowers and sailers, etc., etc.
Why can't the media wait until medals and other prizes have actually been won, before counting our successes ? The additional pressure placed on our competitors is bound to be a hindrance rather than a help and the constant round of interviews full of banal and inane questions about how they are feeling and what they think of their chances must surely be an appalling annoyance and a potential embarrassment.
If Andy Murray wins at Wimbledon today, that will be news. If Roger Federer wins, that will also be news. While neither has yet walked onto court, let alone played a point, there is no news.
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