Relive how Federer beat Murray

1. Men's semi-finals days
2. Murray loses 7-5 7-5 6-4 to Federer
3. Federer to face Djokovic in Sunday's final
4. Djokovic beats Gasquet 7-6 (7-2) 6-4 6-4

A Djokovic versus Federer men's final on Sunday, Serena Williams will meet Garbine Muguruza in Saturday's women's final. But before that there's Wimbledon 2Day on BBC2 and online from 20:00 BST.

The director is cutting to fade so it's a wrap from us. Thanks, as always, for joining us. Until tomorrow.

BBC Sport

What have we learned today? Roger Federer is brilliant and has progressed to his 10th Wimbledon final. Novak Djokovic is a tennis machine and is on course for a third Wimbledon title. There's a plethora of videos to watch if tennis fatigue has not hit.

Predictions on Federer v Djokovic final

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC TV

"Djokovic was going to be ready, regardless. He'll think 'Roger has been the best player, I haven't, we start from zero.'

"If Roger serves over 70% first serves again that takes out Novak's strength - the return. He's going to have to keep up the form he's in. He's in a rhythm.

"It's great for tennis. It has the makings of another great final. I don't think Novak is overall favourite based on what we've seen but he's the reigning champion. Roger can't just be an instant favourite after today."

Semi-final highlights

Watching Federer at his majestic best is no chore so why not peek at the highlights of his semi-final victory against Murray. Watch it again and again to your heart's content. Highlights of Djokovic's win over Gasquet is also available.

The spectators on Centre Court have vanished, as have the umpire, the line judges and the net. The dusty baseline has been vacuumed and the sprinklers are sating the thirsty grass.

Richard Krajicek

1996 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"The feeling was that match was close but Andy didn't really have any chance. The serve was the big difference.

"The stats for Andy aren't that bad, they are not great but they aren't bad either. Andy got a bit discouraged in the third set but until then he didn't do anything wrong. What he could have done was pick a side on Roger's serve and just go for it and get a few more serves back. This is just nit-picking."

I fought as hard as I could - Murray

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More from Andy Murray: "I was trying to fight as hard as I could. I served pretty well under pressure but it felt that every point was ending with a winner. I'm not sure what it looked like to watch, but it felt that I had to play incredibly well just to stay in the match.

"I felt that the crowd were with me. Every time I pumped a fist towards them, they responded with more noise.

"He has earned all the support he gets around the world. When you don't have many opportunities, it is difficult to gather the momentum, but I felt that the crowd were with me."

Tim Henman

Former British number one on BBC TV

"Andy Murray realises his first serve is as good as it has been for a long time. Federer played an incredible match. Sometimes you have to tip your cap in tennis. Roger is one of the best players that has ever lived and that's the best I have ever seen him play."

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC TV

"Losses are easier when you execute your game plan. A loss like this will be easier to accept than the 2012 final. He just got outplayed, it is pretty simple.

"So clear-cut a performance of Roger. Normally we are victims of the moment as athletes. It was such a forthright and clear situation though, Murray nailed it afterwards. He walked right in and described it."

Wimbledon my best chance - Murray

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More from Murray: "I feel like Wimbledon is my best chance to win a slam. I feel that this is my best surface and I have consistently played well here through my career. It is always tough when you go out of the major event and this is no different."

'Roger has a great chance to win'

AFP

More from Andy Murray: "If Roger serves like he did today then he will give himself a great chance to win the final.

"It is not frustrating to be in the same era as Roger. It is great that I get the chance to play against guys like him. The way he played today he could go on for a long time, but you never know when it is going to be the last time you could play them."

'Never seen Federer so springy'

Martina Navratilova

Nine-time Wimbledon singles champion on BBC Radio 5 Live

"Andy just couldn't do it with Roger's serve and he had to work hard on his own serve which is mentally and physically tiring. Andy along with Novak is one the best returners of the game and he couldn't get a break point."

"I have never seen Roger be so springy on court, he was taking the ball early. Andy was losing the turf war and when that happens you can't find any openings. I don't know if Andy made Roger look good today but Roger certainly made himself look good."

Murray's weakness

Tim Henman

Former British number one on BBC TV

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"Murray is a student of the game and will now go and look at statistics and reflect on it. He's played well and lost to one of the greats of all time.

"His game is where he wants it to be. The only aspect is his second serve. I'm not sure why opponents haven't tackled that. Federer was serving second serves at 101mph. Murray was more aggressive but was serving at 88/89 mph."

Federer "a runaway train"

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC TV

Reuters

"When someone is a runaway train, all you do is make simple adjustments. Roger was phenomenal today."

No age concern for Federer

Tim Henman

Former British number one on BBC TV

"When you see him moving like this, age is irrelevant. He looks in good shape and there's no signs of fatigue. Federer will be feeling as good as he's ever felt."

'Roger deserved to win'

EPA

Andy Murray after his semi-final defeat: "I could have done more returning wise. I had a few opportunities on the second serve. But he served extremely well, getting the ball close to the lines and making it difficult for me. That is definitely the best he has served against me.

"He clearly deserved to win the match. He had more opportunities than me. I think that it was a combination of him serving very well and me not returning well on first serve."

'Nothing Andy could do'

Pat Cash

1987 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"Federer had nothing to lose. We all say that this is his last chance to win but nobody was thinking he could win and Federer just went for everything today and it came off.

"There really was nothing Andy could do. Everything went right for Federer and almost everything went right for Murray. The matches between champions are down to few points and it'll be the same on Sunday."

Federer reaches Wimbledon final

"That's definitely the best he's served against me," says Andy Murray in his press conference. "He clearly deserved to win the match."

Federer reaches Wimbledon final

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC TV

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"Two things, a sure tell. Roger's service percentage was over 70%. I don't know if I have ever seen his serve on a rhythm. And his ability to flatten off the backhand and take it up the line, when he does that extremely confident."

Federer reaches Wimbledon final

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC TV

"Andy Murray's service speeds were as high as they've been all tournament. It's just testament to how Roger Federer is seeing the ball right now. It must look like a basketball to him."

The small print

Tim Henman

Former British number one on BBC TV

"Roger's serve was extremely relentless. He was getting no looks and that puts pressure on his serve. As good as I have ever seen Roger play. Murray will be bitterly disappointed but he didn't do much wrong."

Tim Henman

Former British number one on BBC TV

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"It has always been an area, the vulnerability of Murray's second serve. But it was evident Federer would look to dictate second serve and he did that."

Federer reaches Wimbledon final

Murray's match statistics are also impressive: 74% of first serves in, 71% first serve points won, 73% of net points won.

But he won just 50% of points on his second serve, and made fewer winner than Federer (35 to 56). Against anyone else other than the greatest...

Federer reaches Wimbledon final

Hats off to BBC Radio 1 sports reporter Simon Mundie who confidently predicted as early as yesterday that Roger Federer would beat Andy Murray in straight sets. Must know a thing or two about tennis.

'I know I can beat Djokovic'

EPA

More from Roger Federer on BBC Sport:

Federer on the 15-minute game in the second set: "I was screaming inside. Andy elevated his game but I was at my best. It was so close. I was still able to make a difference. I kept cool and continued to hold my service game."

Federer on Djokovic final: "Can I beat him? We'll find out. I'm not sure. Novak is one of the best players and he's made it hard to win big tournaments. I know how to beat him but this is a different occasion. I want this one on Sunday."

Get involved via #bbctennis

Sam Jamaa: Federer was unreal today. Murray needs to look at that second serve though. Federer capitalised on it time after time.

Federer reaches Wimbledon final

Reuters

Who could have imagined that Federer would improve with age? The seven-time champion has produced one of his finest displays to beat the British number one.

Twenty aces, 86% of points won on his first serve, 56 winners and just the 11 unforced errors.

Murs gutted for Murray

Federer reaches Wimbledon final

EPA

Roger Federer told BBC Sport: "It's been tough. Andy's been playing well this season. There's so much expectation riding on it, you just have to focus for one more game, and then one more game. You think the break will come.

"I expected four or five sets. I played so well on the biggest occasion today.

"My serve was good again, against one of the best returners. I kept the pressure up and was able to mix it up. it worked out well."

Martina Navratilova

Nine-time Wimbledon singles champion

"I don't know if I have seen a better match from Roger. He served amazingly well, was so relaxed and mixed it up so well with the serve and from the baseline."

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The crowd put their legs to use for the first time in nearly two hours as they rise to applaud the main acts off the stage. Federer waves as he departs. Murray? Well, there's nothing he can do to heal the pain.

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Jamie Ainge: There is no man walking this Earth with the class and grace to match Roger Federer. The man is majestic.

Game, set and match

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Murray swings loose at a forehand but it's wide, wide, wide. A Federer masterclass and the Swiss still on course to win a record-breaking eighth Wimbledon title.

Match point Federer

Sometimes you just have to doff your cap to a master. Fabulous return from the 17-time Grand Slam champion brings up a match point.

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Murray launches a boomer which Federer can't return. Three more of those would do nicely - or, alternatively, a clubbed backhand into the corner. Murray has dragged himself back in contention. 30-30.

Murray serving to stay in the championship

PA

Federer, like the predator he is, usually pounces at this stage of a set. Murray netting a backhand. The second seed three points away from the final. 0-15. Oh my giddy aunt. Wonderful backhand winner on the run from Federer, Murray with no hope. 0-30. Federer two points away from the final.

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC TV

"If I've seen it right, I think Andy Murray just mouthed to his box 'what do you want me to do?'"

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Richard Krajicek

1996 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"I saw something at the end of the last game which I didn't expect to see. It is Murray who is tired."

Bravo, sing the crowd, bravo and if ever a shot deserved an ovation that was it. A peachy lob from Murray and the back peddling Federer is made to feel his years. Not much else to chirp about, though, if you're rooting for Murray. More variety in the Federer play than a vaudevillian theatre.

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Justin Hames: Murray is just a puppet on a string against Federer.

Luce: Ladies and Gentlemen what you are watching here is a masterclass. A Roger Federer masterclass!

Danny Atkins: You have to applaud an invincible Federer. @bbctennis #bbctennis Best player ever!

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Has Sherlock cracked the code, found Federer's Achilles heel? He needs to shout a little louder in this din if Murray is to hear his cries.

Hearts racing faster on each Murray serve, though perhaps we should have more confidence because he lasers an ace to the wings for 40-15. Oh, Roger. Dreamy volley. Next a baseline slug-fest, momentum-changing forehand from Murray and the Scot hanging on!

Pat Cash

1987 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"Murray is not getting any chances against Federer, not even half chances."

AFP

We know, Judy. We know. Mum watching through the lattice of her fingers, as is a lady in the cheap seats. The tension enough to break glass. Federer untroubled on his serve, arrow after arrow, each one softly killing Murray's comeback hopes.

A gentleman attempts to capture the action through his smart phone, but he's not quick enough to capture a dazzling Murray forehand which eases the Scot to 40-15. A faulty Federer return. Whistles and whoops from those in the Briton's camp.

PA

Federer gliding to the tape, a flick of the wrist and a stonking volley flies by Murray. All the Scot can do is look on in admiration, just like the rest of us.

Murray gazing into the middle-distance during the changeover, mulling his options, trying to come up with a crowning move. But when one of the game's great returners isn't getting a sniff on the Federer serve, you know the Swiss is performing on a higher plane.

What chance Murray?

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Centre Court giddy on sunshine and supernaturally good tennis. Both players have reached otherworldly standards, which might be why Prince Andrew is watching this set through his shades. Not even Royal eyes have seen anything like this. The Murray serve solid. Federer nicking one point but no more than that.

Tim Henman

Former British number one on BBC TV

"The momentum is relentless. You are waiting for the ebbs and flows but it is just immaculate the way Roger is playing."

Not as solid? Er, the second seed lasers an ace before another super-duper first serve puts him in the driving seat to arrow a trademark forehand down the line beyond his opponent.

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC TV

"There is one thing you can't control on a tennis court and that is the other person's serve. Unbelievable rhythm from Federer."

Deuce on Federer's serve

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What would fashion designer Stella McCartney give for an opportunity to design a Federer Wimbledon outfit? Hopefully her father isn't lurking in the bowels of Centre, readying himself for a rendition of Hey Jude.

Boom! Murray on the prowl, getting his teeth into a tame Federer volley - forehand winner on the run, but Federer responds with an ace - his 17th of the match. But the Swiss' serve not as solid as it has been. To deuce we go.

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Benjamin Greenhalgh: Phenomenal performance from Federer so far!Hands down the best player in the tournament so far... Can Murray come back?

Murray fit for five?

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC TV

Reuters

"Murray has the legs to come back. He's only had one bad game. But the thing about Roger is when he's comfortable, he's dialled in."

Beauties from Murray - calmly to the net, hitting a forehand winner, followed by two ripsnorkelling serves. If it must be five sets then five sets it will be, he says.

Pat Cash

1987 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"Wonder if Murray can play any better than this. Full credit to Federer, absolute sublime tennis from him. He is applying pressure constantly on Andy. Federer at his best!"

Robson appreciation

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David Beggs: Sometimes you have to put your hands up and say the other person is just too good.

Dylan Strain: Federer has played flawless tennis. 2 sets up. Murray to win next 3? Nah. Not the way Fed is playing.

John Arkless: I've never seen anyone play so well and be down two sets to love. Federer has been out of this world so far

Dame Shirley Bassey has removed her jacket - intent - and for most of that second set she was covering her mouth with her hands. If a Dame can't keep calm when all around are losing theirs then what hope have the rest of us? Federer serving at lightning speed, an easy-peasy hold to 15. Will Murray ever get a sniff?

* denotes next to serve

Game and second set

First serve into the net. Federer coming in, he'll put that away all day long...

Set point for Federer

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Federer down the line, 0-15. Better serve out wide, 15-15. Fed backhand down the line - called long, he'll challenge, he'll be proved right. Thumping forehand, 30-30. Feeble backhand into the net, set point...

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Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC TV

"There are points in games that can affect the whole outcome of the championship. Was that 10th game one of them?"

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BHF26: The athleticism of Andy Murray is MONSTROUS! He can run & run forever, his legs could be the winner in this match!

Eoghan Smith: What. A. Hold. What a game. What a couple of players

Paul Thompson: Huge, huge, HUGE hold! Be still my beating heart. Murray still in this set!

From epic to easy - Roger racing to 40-0, sweet sweet forehand winner cuffed effortlessly away. Murray will have to do it all over again.

Murray wins marathon game

ALLSPORT

Ace! Five set points saved, and could that be the moment?

Murray down the line, he won't chase that, advantage once again.

No, into the net, is that our eighth deuce?

Murray serves for the game

Who will blink? Roger at the net, drop-shot, Murray dashing dashing dashing - scoops - makes it! Advantage Murray.

Murray scoops into the net, and we'll have a sixth deuce.

Federer's first set triumph

You can watch the highlights of Roger Federer's immaculate first set by clicking on the highlights tab on this page.

There are also plenty of other videos for you to watch here.

Roger really should have made that volley, but he's inexplicably muffed it - advantage Britain...

Oi-yoi-yoi - raking one-handed backhand down the line from Roger, deuce once more.

Game point for Murray

Federer return long. Advantage Murray.

Murray saves fifth set point

First serve long. Second in - long exchange from the baselines, Murray to the net, volley away! Deuce once again, hold onto your dinners.

Fifth set point for Federer

Murray backhand into the net, set point number five.

First serve into the net. Second onto Roger's forehand - chance here, and he's only stuck it in the net! Deuce.

Fourth set point for Federer

Murray with a simple forehand into the net, a fourth break point...

Murray lining up a forehand with Roger easing to the net - winner down the line. Roger into this, Murray stretching, the ball up and over and... wide. Deuce again.

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC TV

"Roger doesn't look like a guy who's going to turn 34 next month. He's unbelievable.

Murray saves three set points

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Big first serve, Roger... long! He's saved three set points...

Federer forehand into the net, 30-40.

Second serve ace - 15-40...

Three set points Federer

Murray long with a forehand, and that's sublime from Roger - dashing forehand somehow hooked cross-court for a sensational winner. Murray into the net, three set points...

PA

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Aidan Williams: Huge few minutes ahead. Lets have a noisy centre court and come on Murray!

Dave Lewis: Feeling blessed - #FederervsMurray is a treat to watch. Just hope Andy finds his mojo.

Katie: Come on Andy!!! The crowd needs to get behind him.

AFP

Is it a spectator or a fan? Roger ripping a forehand cross-court, Murray unable to handle the heat. Overhead down and away, Murray back under the pump once more.

Richard Krajicek

1996 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"It is a close match but I have the feeling that Federer has the edge. If there is a break of serve, it will be Federer breaking Murray."

Miles Maclagan

Former coach to Andy Murray and Laura Robson on BBC Radio 5 live

"One break point could decide the set. Federer is feeling comfortable, using the slice to get a short ball from Murray to strike. Resistance is keeping Murray alive."

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC TV

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"This set has been such a good example of how underrated Andy Murray is as a competitor. This guy just fights."

Murray onto a forehand sitting up, but he goes long for 15-30. Federer, stretching, into the net. Big first serve, Federer sending that 124mph tracer bullet long. Fine escape.

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC TV

"Federer has been by far the best player, but Murray knows if he's better in the next 15 minutes then it's one set all."

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James Moring: There's a legitimate danger of me dislocating my wrist on some of these fist pumps. Come on Andy!!

Maria Morgan: The crowd really need to get behind Andy like they did in the finals at the Olympics.

Richard Krajicek

1996 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"It is risky but what Murray could do is get into long rallies in his own service game to wear Roger down and maybe then his serve will go down. That's a tactic Andy could use."

Bloke in the crowd with a towel over his head. That may actually make you hotter, sir. Roger cantering at 40-0, but then a forehand winner into the corner and backhand return the other way. 40-30... nope, hammer of Thor first serve, Roger to his chair for a beverage.

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Can Murray end his run?

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC TV

"Without question these two have the best slice-backhands in the game. They're so effective."

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Aytug Ozeli: Always enjoy watching a master go about his work. Come on #Federer!

Al G Bra: Who can say Federer is over the hill? Great stuff!

Hold to love for Murray, and just the first hints - the tiniest suggestion - that the balance of power may be shifting slightly. Can he now get into the Federer serve?

Mike Henson

BBC Sport at Wimbledon

Mike Henson

"Packed all the way to the water feature on Henman Hill, with those watching on divided 70:30 in Murray's favour.

"And, even if they are deflated by the loss of the first set, most of those Murray fans are going to be here until the end. To try and leave the hill involves negotiating a minefield of limbs and expensively-purchased drinks all balanced of a slippery slope of shiny grass."

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PA

Fancy squeezing your way onto there? I wouldn't worry about it, the stewards have shut it down like a very polite house party. Sloppy from Murray, looping a backhand long, and Fed cruises on.

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Barnie Morton: Federer arguably in the form of his life here and Murray keeps coming back at him! Tennis of the highest quality.

Richard Krajicek

1996 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"Murray knows that he has to win the rallies on his serve because he is not going to getting into any rallies on Roger's serve. He is feeling that pressure."

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Actors Sarah Hadland and Sally Phillips, who star in Miranda with, er, Miranda, enjoying this fabulous sporting feast. Not so tasty there from Murray, off balance and into the net for 30-30. second serve, clattered back, break point. Oh, lucky boy, Federer misses an easy winner down the line. Backhand long, he's wriggled off the hook. Hard yards, these, hard yards.

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Greg Lee: Not gonna lie, a Murray/Djokovic final would be a lot more exciting than a Federer/Djokovic final! Come on Andy!!

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC TV

"The subtleties of what Roger is doing to control the game right now are incredible.

"When he's in form like this, it's an uphill battle."

Murray's first opening, 30-30 on a second serve - oof, cutter into the body, and Murray can't control that. Federer's level has got to drop at some stage, hasn't it? Hasn't it?

Aimee Lewis

BBC Sport at Wimbledon

BBC Sport

Cameramen and photographers keeping an eye on those keeping an eye on Murray and Federer. The hill full to capacity on this wonderful skin-cooking day.

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Emily Jerman Fashion: I dreamt about tennis last night. Feel a touch of the butterflies.

Esther Barnes: Home from the school run, now eating ice lollies watching #Wimbledon. Come on Andy!

Federer with his teeth in Murray's hide, and at 15-30 he's tugging and tearing. Big first serve, then another, forehand out left and then deep right. Anxiety seeping round the old arena.

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Federer at 87% on his first serve, impregnable. 41 minutes gone, and the Swiss timing is a thing of wonder once again.

'Virtually impossible for Federer to win the title'

Richard Krajicek

1996 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"The problem for Federer is that even if he wins today, unless it is straight sets which looks highly unlikely, he will face someone with a similar kind of game.

"Last year he came into the finals comfortably and yet was tired in the fifth set. It is virtually impossible for Federer to win the title.

"For Murray it doesn't matter, he can recover after a five-set match."

Tim Henman

Former British number one on BBC TV

"From Murray's point of view, he's done nothing wrong. Federer has played as well as he has for a long time. He's just coming up with the right shots."

Game and first set Federer

Reuters

One set point left, Murray with a forehand mid-court, Federer with a needle to thread... he's made it...

Federer two set points

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Mmm, backhand off one hand from Federer down the line, and now Murray into the net for 15-30. Feeble second serve, mangled back by Federer, two set points. Big guts, passes Roger down the line. One left...

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Murray with an outrageous forehand cross-court, called wide by the line-judge but over-ruled by our umpire. A glimmer at 40-30, snuffed out by a thumping first serve out wide. That serve in a tie-break is a considerable concern...

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Billy Smith: Compliment to tennis: two of the best players almost always results in an amazing match, these boys have some talent.

Stuart Fraser: I know he is British, but I won't be supporting Murray over Federer. The Swiss is the reason I got so into tennis.

Alohomora Sparks: After 4 years as a Swiss expat in the UK, it's officially happening... I truly, honestly don't know who to root for anymore!

Anything you can do, mutters Murray, holding to love. Amelie Mauresmo wearing her "Make your own luck" t-shirt.

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Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC TV

"The two-and-a-half-year no-win-against-Federer stat is deceiving. Murray had to spend time getting better after back surgery. This is a different Andy Murray we're seeing this year."

Richard Krajicek

1996 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

Reuters

"Andy has not done anything wrong so far."

"The reason why Roger has lasted so long is that his matches are quicker and he spends less time on the court."

Roger accelerating now, in to the net, first serve out wide, not a fingerhold for Murray to take. He'll be serving now to stay in the set.

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Andy Craig: On the beach in Brazil reading the updates! Hoping Murray can win faster than I can down these caipirinhas!

kayur desai: It is going to be tough for either one.. Just one set and feeling the nerves.

AFP

Crusher of a flat backhand from Murray, and then a ripper down the line from deep that Federer can only balloon towards the Royal Box. 24 minutes gone, tighter than a snake's sleeping-bag.

Richard Krajicek

1996 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"Grass is Federer's biggest chance to win another Grand Slam and he has obviously come very close in the past. The serve gets so much help on grass and he doesn't have to do too much."

Pat Cash

1987 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"I have noticed this with Murray's second serve, sometime it is fast, sometimes it is slow and in a crazy way it doesn't give any rhythm to his opponent."

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ruledbysequins: I would insert my mandatory, C'mon Andy, tweet here; but I am torn. I love Federer *and* Murray. It's torture!

Luke Miller: Lots of Love for Andy out there. But is it wrong to be a Brit and support Federer?

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Federer purring like a pristine old Bentley, coming in behind his serve - Good Lord, he's at 91% on that first serve, he's only failed to land two of them all set...

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Thatgregkid: Tour de France over, Great win for Cavendish. Time to watch Murray cruise through the semi-final.

Only one first serve missed by the two men thus far. But that's wonderful touch from Federer, flicking up a half-volley at the net, and he'll have 30-30 on a Murray second serve - wasted it, backhand slapped into the net. Ace out wide, escape secured.

Miles Maclagan

Former coach to Andy Murray and Laura Robson on BBC Radio 5 live

"It has been a fast start, Federer serve is on fire. It is interesting to see the initial jabs but no-one has landed the one hook as yet.

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EPA

Federer holds to love, smearing icing on that cake with an ace down the middle. He's only been broken once in the entire championships. Having not been broken for 116 games before that. Ouch.

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC TV

"It's a hot day but Murray is continuing to hit a hard serve. Roger's not got a beat on it yet."

Richard Krajicek

1996 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"This is straight away a very high-level of tennis from both of them. Both serving exceptionally well so far."

"Whenever it is an equal rally then Murray is the better player. Federer has to serve well to stay in it."

Raking forehand cross-court from Federer, and both men going for their shots here - Murray hitting his groundstrokes very sweetly, you have to say, and these hors d'ouevres are as tasty as we hoped...

Aimee Lewis

BBC Sport at Wimbledon

BBC

Chocker on Henman Hill. The scene: a rendition of happy birthday, champagne bottles popping, skin cooking and Murray playing...

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We all are Coco, we all are...

* Coco reached the quarter-finals of the women's singles, losing to Maria Sharapova.

If you're wondering how Bassey got her tickets, she came through qualifying at Roehampton. Chance here for Murray, guiding a dreamy backhand down the line, but Roger reaches for another big serve out wide to keep his elegant nose in front.

Reuters

They've all come out this afternoon - Sir Alex Ferguson, Thierry Henry, Shirley Bassey. Here's Kim, all smiles as Murray holds to 15.

Richard Krajicek

1996 Wimbledon champion on BBC Radio 5 live

"It is pretty clear what the tactic is from Roger. He will come in and we are going to see a lot of serve and volley from him."

Roger to open out from opposite the Royal Box, and a delightful game to get us going - whipcrack volley from Fed, Murray with a fetch-that forehand lob, and then a backhand flayed down the line - early break point. No, return into the net, and Roger wraps it up with a beefy serve out wide.

* denotes next server

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Get Involved

Even the dogs want Murray to win...

EPA

A fair amount of pinching yourself going on around Centre. Even those trying hard to look as if this sort of occasion greets them every Friday are finding it difficult to keep the grins off their faces.

Get involved via #MurrayMania

Ryan Hemmings: What a match this will be between 2 great champions especially Federer! This is a test of all kinds for Murray!

Tim Else: Absolutely buzzing for Federer vs Murray this afternoon! One mistake could make ALL the difference.

Alex Lukic: Sacrificing an afternoon in the sun to cheer on @andy_murray in his semi-final. C'MON ANDY!

Federer v Murray in numbers

BBC

Here we go. Players out on court, Murray with white cap, Roger his white bandana like a reformed member of Dogs D'Amour.

Murray's motivational movies

Andy Murray says he watches films like Toy Story 2 while relaxing before bed. Ahh, bless.

With that in mind, BBC Newsbeat have designed some movie posters to inspire the British number one against Roger Federer.

Take a peek here.....

BBC

Murray's weapon of choice

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC TV

"It's tough facing Federer. Luckily for Murray, he has more weapons in his arsenal than I did."

.

A perfect British summer's afternoon: sunshine as restorative as a warm bath, blue skies with speckled and benign white clouds. Hubbub around Centre as the patrons pant back to their seats after a quick courtesy break or rapid refill after that first semi. Where's your cash?

Federer v Murray - head-to-head

BBC

And so it comes to this. We all understand that Friday feeling, but this is something else entirely: a contest between the old king of Centre Court and the nation's favourite, a battle between Swiss style and Scottish swagger, a showdown so finely poised no-one has any real idea which way it might go.

This is a match that demands fresh fingers. Here is Tom Fordyce to take you through the main event.

Murray v Federer starts at 16:05

Aimee Lewis

BBC Sport at Wimbledon

Fancy a walk to the end of the resale queue for Centre Court tickets? It'll take you a while to get there. There's a sinuous line of bodies a stone's throw from the hill, hopeful that others will give up their golden tickets. There's a fine line between optimism and foolishness.

Tim Henman

Former British number one on BBC TV

"The history and tradition here is amazing. Now I understand it a lot better than when I was playing, as I was trying to ignore it back then.

"The support Andy has built up is unbelievable. Federer is so popular so it's going to be a dynamic atmosphere."

Which bit of history do you take your pointers from?

Their last meeting? A Federer masterclass as he walloped Murray 6-0 6-1 in December's World Tour Finals.

Their last meeting on Centre Court? Andy Murray crushing Federer 6-2 6-1 6-4 to win Olympic gold in 2012.

Their last in a Wimbledon final? Federer dragging tears out of Murray as he wins in 2012.

Choose your man, choose your evidence.

Get Involved

  Use #MurrayMania to show/tell us how you'll be supporting/watching. 

As people start to file back into Centre Court with charged glasses and emptied bladders attention switches to the day's headliners.

In the blue corner, the home favourite, the man who ended 77 years of hurt, the indomitable, Andy Murray.

In the red corner, perhaps the best ever, the 17-time Grand Slam champion, the old smoothie himself Roger Federer.

This is the sort of match that sporting summers are made for. Drop the work, sit down and strap in.

Djokovic reaches Wimbledon final

PA

More from Novak Djokovic after his win over Richard Gasquet:

On his injured shoulder: "It's nothing that worries me. I'll be OK for the next match."

On playing at Wimbledon: "I'm definitely living the dream. I'm playing on the greatest tennis court in the world. I have a responsibility to get the best out of myself.

"If you look at names and legends who have played here, it's a great honour and privilege.

On Federer v Murray: "I cannot foresee the future but I'll enjoy their match. There's a lot at stake but I'm ready for it."

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC TV

"I think he played average tennis today and easily went into the final of Wimbledon. That is how far Novak Djokovic has come."

Djokovic reaches Wimbledon final

Reuters

Novak Djokovic told BBC Sport: "It was good performance, considering the occasion. It's always tough. Richard had a great tournament and deserved to be in semis.

"The first set could have gone his way but luckily it went to me."

Is Djokovic's shoulder a worry?

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC TV

"The only reason I am worried about Novak is if you call a trainer you are normally behind in the score and it is gamesmanship. He is giving hope for the hopeless, no reason to show something might be wrong. He wouldn't call a trainer if nothing was wrong. Can he fix it? Maybe."

Djokovic into final

John Lloyd

Former British number one on BBC Radio 5 Live

AFP

"It is nice for Novak to win in a quite a short time. Just took two and half hours. He will be hoping that the Murray-Federer match goes on for more than four hours.

"I think he played well today, was a bit scratchy at times but Richard went for broke today and it wasn't easy for Novak to play even though he came through in three sets."

Get involved via #bbctennis

Jiten Chandarana: At least Gasquet won 14 games....that's more than Tim thought.

BHF26: Commiserations Richard Gasquet you played some OUTSTANDING matches during #Wimbledon.

Murray v Federer on court at 16:05 BST

As Novak Djokovic scribbles his signature on a few over-sized tennis balls, an announcement comes over the tannoy.

A crystal clear voice announces that there will be a short break and Andy Murray and Roger Federer will come on Centre Court in half an hour's time.

Djokovic: One of the greats?

John McEnroe

Three-time Wimbledon champion on BBC TV

AFP

"That was an awesome effort by Djokovic. These all time greats are sitting there saying: 'Yeah, I would have had a problem against this guy'.

"His consistency and preparation has forced other guys to improve."

Get involved via #bbctennis

Raelynne: Was hoping Gasquet would keep Djokovic on court long enough for me to get home before Murray match. Sadly, not to be.

Game, set and match

Getty Images

That's your lot. As routine as Wimbledon semi-finals come.

It was kind of summed up by the final point as Djokovic served a spitter out wide and then strolled in to slide the winning forehand away after Gasquet pats back tamely.

It is unlikely that Andy Murray or Roger Federer will get as leisurely a passage thorough to the final.

Gasquet holds serve

In vain? Almost certainly.

But Richard Gasquet chalks up a minor moral victory as he denies Novak Djokovic the break that would have sealed the match, chasing superbly in the penultimate point.

That is how good Djokovic is though. He leaves anyone short of the world's best arguing over scrapes and small change.

Second match point saved by Gasquet

PA

Richard Gasquet continues to rage against the dying of the light, pummelling away to force Djokovic wide and put the ball out of reach.

Match point saved by Gasquet

Djokovic advances to the net and has options to each side of Gasquet. He goes down the line and over-cooks.

Deuce.

Match point Djokovic

John McEnroe

Three-time Wimbledon champion on BBC TV

"It's unbelievable how good Djokovic is. He looks like he's going to put Gasquet away on his own serve. That's why he's favourite to win Wimbledon."

Match point Djokovic

Novak Djokovic with match point as Richard Gasquet cuffs a backhand long

Get Involved

EPA

It is difficult to begrudge Novak Djokovic a relentless grinding to dust, when he produces shots like that silky sideways dropper. Delicious.

Richard Gasquet rediscovers his mojo momentarily as he hammers a forehand down the line for 40-30.

But, never mind different class, Djokovic is a whole school year above. A wicked backhand from out wide wraps up the game.

Get involved via #bbctennis

GemmaAttew: Feeling ridiculously nervous. My entire weekend will be ruined unless Andy Murray beats Federer. Come on Murray!

Richard Gasquet ticks through a service game, doing what he needs to keep the scoreline respectable.

But overhauling the Djokovic serve is another matter. He has worked up just two break points so far in the match and converted just one.

As Wimbledon semi-finals go, this has turned into a bit of a stinker.

A cracking first set, but since then Novak Djokovic and Richard Gasquet both seem to have worked out who is going to be back be on Sunday.

And who is going to be back home in Paris. Djokovic just two holds of serve away.

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... and it looks pretty straight forward at the moment.

AP

Novak Djokovic has the chance to take Richard Gasquet to deuce, but inexplicably hammers wide with a perfectly presentable mid-court bounce and his opponent rooted to the baseline.

He has his break and that is probably all he needs to be waved through into the final.

John McEnroe

Three-time Wimbledon champion on BBC TV

"This is what happened in the first set. It must be so depressing for the French team. Battling from behind all the time."

Novak Djokovic backs up his break with a hold for love. This has the feeling of a procession rather than a contest.

Richard Gasquet is a ghost of the man who came out swinging in the first set. Drained of belief and fight and content to look back on a decent SW19 campaign rather than forward to a first Grand Slam final.

Get involved via #bbctennis

Dave Clancy: Could do with Gasquet pulling this back a bit, mostly so the Murray match isn't over before I get back from work!

Rich: Any chance Novak can painfully drag this out another three hours so I'm home in time to watch Andy.

Djokovic breaks

Novak Djokovic is just relentless percentages, a tennis super computer, playing the margins and milking Richard Gasquet for mistakes.

Another two errors off the Frenchman's bat and he has a third-set and potentially fatal break.

Gasquet taken to deuce

PA

Richard Gasquet whips a curling forehand wide and is looking up at 15-30.

He comes to the net, takes the sting out of Djokovic's approach with a lovely cushioned volley that the Serb can't run down.

But the Frenchman has a break point to defend as he bops a backhand into the net. Djokovic has broken. Or has he? Gasquet gets the Hawk-Eye gods to deliver judgement on his final forehand. It was called long, but the virtual replay says it kissed the back of the line.

Get off the stools and back out there...

PA

The Djokovic concentration levels have dipped. The Serb challenges a call and we must wait an age for the result. Is Hawk-Eye broken? Someone stick 50p in the meter. The champ, though, got it wrong and Gasquet has a chance at 0-30.

But the Frenchman tightens, and the Serb's first serve helps him rattle off four points in quick succession.

John McEnroe

Three-time Wimbledon champion on BBC TV

Reuters

"Djokovic seems a bit bothered. He's called the trainer a couple of times on the change-overs and he's not executing shots as well as he did before."

Leon Smith

GB Davis Cup captain on BBC Radio 5 live

"The shoulder injury is not going to affect Djokovic's serve but he has backed off a bit on the return of serve to let the ball drop and adjusted his return position.

"It hasn't hampered him too much but it is difficult to tell. Something is niggling him, like he is trying to pop something back into place."

Getty Images

Novak Djokovic comes over all Roland Garros as he slides three feet across a bald patch of baseline on the game's opening point.

The groundsman will have him back out to tidy that up after we are done. Roger Federer, waiting in the wings, won't like his rival making a mess of his stage like that certainly.

Djokovic is pressing and probing the Gasquet serve once again, dragging him to deuce with relentless consistency. But the Frenchman survives with a little bit of backhand sparkle.

Get involved via #bbctennis

Sharon Powell: Typical Djokovic, calls the trainer just in case Gasquet was thinking he had a chance, lets play mind games, seen it all before!

Noamaan: Djokovic looking ruthless as ever today!

John McEnroe

Three-time Wimbledon champion on BBC TV

"It's hard for Gasquet to run around and make something happen and then miss out. It's got to be painful.

"At 2-0 down, we are thinking how is Gasquet going to get out of this?"

Game and second set

Hello there. Richard Gasquet with a chink of light and 15-30. Interesting.

But Novak Djokovic, like a deputy headmaster, comes in and ruins the fun. Boom! Boom! Both barrels as he delivers successive aces.

Game point and Gasquet, who has lost the control he had on angles and depth in the first set, pumps long down the middle.

Job done.

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Richard Gasquet needs to improve this stat...

AFP

Richard Gasquet rolls the clock back to the days of sepia/ the first set, with a superb wrong-footing backhand for 40-15. It has been a while since we saw that stroke rear its beautiful head.

Novak Djokovic looks like he is free-wheeling towards the second set, not sniffing around the Frenchman's serve with too much interest.

Does he want to save energy and get the job done on his own serve? Or is he feeling under the weather? The trainer has been on again to see to the champion.

Get involved via #bbctennis

Rhosyn Morgan-Davies: The big question is has Djokovic called the same "magic trainer" that Murray and Seppi used?

Getty Images

Novak Djokovic with the nimble footwork of a flyweight world champion as he tip-toes back, keeping his eyes locked on a sky-scraping moonball, and slaps away a bounce smash for 40-30.

Richard Gasquet clumps a forehand between the tramlines and another second-set escape route is blocked off for the Frenchman.

Djokovic calls for the trainer

Getty Images

Novak Djokovic has just had the trainer on during the changeover. A bit of work on his left shoulder and elbow. One to keep an eye on, but it does not seem to be hindering him too dramatically.

Watch Djokovic dazzle

Reuters

You can watch Novak Djokovic win a brilliant first-set rally again by clicking on the highlights tab on this page.

And more wonderful videos are available by clicking here.

EPA

Richard Gasquet keeps his end of the scoreboard up with a hold to love.

A bit of a deflated atmosphere in Centre Court with the feeling that the set, and indeed the match, is meandering towards an inevitable Djokovic-flavoured conclusion.

Novak Djokovic has won a massive 83% of point behind his first serve.

He is one of the greatest returners the game has ever seen. Gasquet is not.

Another service game flits by at top speed and one break might well be enough if the trend continues.

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC Radio 5 Live

"I don't thing Novak is happy with his cross-court backhand. Normally it is so reliable, like the sun coming up.

"There are no promises in tennis. He probably has the best two-handed backhand ever and yet he is struggling with that shot today and it is fascinating to see."

John McEnroe

Three-time Wimbledon champion on BBC TV

"This is critical for Gasquet. If he goes down by two sets, what are the odds then?

A double fault at 40-15 up and Richard Gasquet is flirting with the double-break danger again.

He manages to keep a lid on Djokovic, but is this is a rearguard action? Beating Nick Kyrgios and Stan Wawrinka is one thing, but Novak Djokovic applies relentless pressure like no other.

Get involved via #bbctennis

Faddi: Gasquet never had a chance against Djokovic. His game is too one dimensional. Wawrinka would have given him a real challenge.

Tim Purcell: Gasquet has the look of a man told that he's the main course and the #1 is hungry. Djoko is sharpening the carving knife.

Rolling back the years

Getty Images

The Novak Djokovic serve comes to its owner's rescue. Richard Gasquet cannot claw back from out near the front row and the Serb remains out of reach.

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC Radio 5 Live

"Novak for some reason, even though he is a set up, looks irritable. He recognises the importance of the moment and wants to gain full control of the match."

Gasquet brings up two break points

Reuters

Novak Djokovic tries out the invisible hammock that Wimbledon are trialling this year during the changeover.

No time to be lazing on the job champ. Suddenly Djokovic has two break points to defend as he duffs a backhand long.

John Lloyd

Former British number one on BBC Radio 5 Live

AFP

"You see Gasquet's body language, he is slumping around and looks exhausted already."

Gasquet holds

Richard Gasquet stays just the one break behind. He is huffing and puffing as he tries to keep pace with Novak Djokovic at the moment.

Time to regrip that racquet. Gasquet's hands are a blur as he wraps rubber round the handle, but hopefully his mind is starting to clear.

He needs that nothing-to-lose mentality back from the first set.

Gasquet taken to deuce

Getty Images

A superb scampering scraping forehand across court and a very wise leave at the net give Novak Djokovic 30-30.

More pressure on the creaking Richard Gasquet. Break point. Seen off with a sublime half-volley pick-up on the slide at the net.

But there is still deuce to deal with for the Frenchman...

John McEnroe

Three-time Wimbledon champion on BBC TV

"Djokovic is trying to break him down and make him work. Gasquet is having to run a lot more. It's like set point for him now."

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC Radio 5 Live

"You can see that Novak wants to pounce and Gasquet wants to survive."

Novak Djokovic is feathering the pedal and the engine is purring.

Richard Gasquet is no longer hurrying him into strokes or shifting him around court. Instead the champ has a solid platform and is picking the remotest spots between the tramlines for winner as he holds to 15.

Leon Smith

GB Davis Cup captain on BBC Radio 5 live

"It is tough for Gasquet, he played some great tennis in the first set, and then played some loose points in the breaker. Novak didn't have to do too much to win it.

"Gasquet has to dig deep in the second set. You can already see that Djokovic's body language is up and he is controlling the points from the baseline."

No sweat

Fancy bidding for a week-old sweatband worn by Andy Murray AFTER hours of sweat and toil on the court? 

Was said band beginning to cause a stink in the Royal household? Proceeds will help pay for air fresheners at Clarence House - and monies will also go to a charity of the British number one's choice. 

Djokovic breaks

AFP

Richard Gasquet swats into the gauze, looks accusingly at the baseline dirt and faces a second break point.

He plays the fatal rally in a half-hearted, thick-headed way, pondering into the net behind a nothing-much approach and Djokovic duly whips a winner cross court.

Centre Court fears the worse, greeting the break with nervous applause.

Gasquet taken to deuce

Plenty of sauce on Richard Gasquet's sliced strokes, but Novak Djokovic's hitting is just too clean, too pure to be denied.

The Serb advances and clubs away a winner from midcourt to bring up 30-40 and break point.

A dazzling backhand from Gasquet just when he needed it. Deuce.

Get involved via #bbctennis

Grant Campbell BSc: No way back for Gasquet now. Unfortunately, Djokovic looking like winning again. (sighs)

Anish Neupane: Someone with Karlovic serve and a Gasquet backhand would be pretty deadly!!

Long road back for Gasquet

PA

You don't get any point for effort, showing your working or style in this game.

Which is shame for Richard Gasquet as he was the better player for large parts of that first set.

As it is, he might as well have lost it 6-3, as McEnroe just said. That defeatist thinking better not have entered the Frenchman's top six inches.

John McEnroe

Three-time Wimbledon champion on BBC TV

"An admirable performance from Gasquet. He did a lot of good things. It almost works to Djokovic's benefit because they've had to play such a long set. It would be better for Richard to lose 6-3.

"It's a devastating loss for Gasquet. Can he forget about it? It's a test of belief for him."

Djokovic wins first set

.

Looks even more ominous for Gasquet when you read this stat, doesn't it?

Game and first set to Djokovic

Djokovic serves out wide. Gasquet's return is long. The Serb growls. The set is his.

Four set points Djokovic

Novak Djokovic creeps into the net and puts away a deft backhand volley. Four set points.

Tie-break

Errors trickling from Gasquet's racquet. The Frenchman nets a forehand. Djokovic in command.

Tie-break

Richard Gasquet with an over-eager forehand. It looked long. He challenges anyway. It was practically off the Hawk-Eye screen it was so over-cooked. Djokovic a mini-break up.

Tie-break

Gasquet attempts a backhand winner down the line, but fails. Fine margins.

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC Radio 5 Live

"This is a must win set for Gasquet, not so much for Novak."

"Novak will start directing the traffic to Gasquet's forehand side. There is no upside to challenging Gasquet's backhand."

Tie-break

Novak Djokovic into the net. Basic error and back to parity.

Tie-break

Richard Gasquet's hand pops up to challenge a Djokovic ball right up to the baseline. The line judge is silent, but Hawk-Eye booms 'Out'. A reprieve.

Tie-break

Back and forth from the baseline until Gasquet loops his forehand long. Mini-break to the defending champion.

Leon Smith

GB Davis Cup captain on BBC Radio 5 live

"The tennis has been of the highest quality. It is so pleasing to see Gasquet stepping it up, playing aggressively and applying pressure but you get the feeling this is about as hard as Gasquet can go. He has to get the first set, to get some confidence otherwise the doubts will start coming in."

Gasquet has never beaten Djokovic in a tie-break. The Serb opens with an ace. Ominous.

Tie-break

EPA

Richard Gasquet's backhand just looks flimsy and frail as he swings it, but it is good enough to take him into the tie-break. Djokovic's coach Boris Becker looks on...

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC Radio 5 Live

"It is no accident that Gasquet has reached the semi-finals of Wimbledon for a second time. You can't do that with just the power of one shot, especially with the complete players we see nowadays."

Army of two...

Novak Djokovic's serve breezes through, suffering only a one-point dint.

The spotlight swings back on Richard Gasquet, so far though he has been relishing the big Centre Court stage.

Get involved via #bbctennis

Dawn Williams: Gasquet's backhand is majestic.

Jamie Livermore: I'm hoping Gasquet can keep this match going long enough so I'm back in time to see @andy_murray!

Tim Purcell: Well that backhand had flecks of gorgeousness baked right into it. Djoko didn't know whether to try to hit it or just kiss it.

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC Radio 5 Live

"It is important to mention that Novak is missing some of the backhand crosscourt shots but that is cause and effect. If he goes short with that ball then Gasquet will have his way with it but Novak hasn't quite found the range with it."

Getty Images

That is what they have come to see.

Richard Gasquet has brought his backhand to the party. An absolutely delicious down-the-line winner leave Novak Djokovic groping thin air at the net as he tries to hustle and harry.

Gasquet is playing like a man who has looked at his record against Djokovic and decided he might as well go down firing. And so far that laissez-faire attitude means he is more than keepig his head above water.

Novak Djokovic keeps ahead on the scoreboard with a regulation hold. It could have been a little sticky had Gasquet found the line with a crafty little lateral dropper at 15-15.

But he didn't, so it isn't. Djokovic's serve is still proving difficult for Gasquet to pick up on return.

Now he has to serve out to stay in this opener.

Gasquet

Richard Gasquet has not won a set against Novak Djokovic in a Grand Slam...

Dreamy backhand alert!

Richard Gasquet's ball toss on his second serve is a just a little flip into the air. Not enough air for him to really crank the limb into life and add a bit of pace.

Djokovic hammers away a return for 15-30 and a glimmer.

Goodness. I think that was the sound of tennis purists purring in pleasure all around the stands. Gasquet unfurls the most glorious specimen of a backhand - a high follow-through finish held for the cameras as the ball skids away for a clean-as-a-whistle winner.

Djokovic, blinded by the beauty, folds out of the game.

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC Radio 5 Live

Getty Images

"It is tough with us in media and I say us, we want the players to share everything and then when we don't like something we shred them for it."

"Novak is a fun-loving guy, and very friendly. The way he conducts himself on and off court has been impressive. I didn't think he'd become the best player but now that he has, it is impressive."

Vote results

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Earlier we asked you who you thought would be in the Wimbledon final. Djokovic v Murray it is then...

Murray mania

Good to see an Olympic rower getting into it at Wimbledon...

Getty Images

Novak Djokovic takes on Richard Gasquet's backhand at 30-30, padding into the net as the Frenchman lines up his sights on his favoured wing.

Whoosh! The ball whistles down the line, but a fraction long. A gamble from Djokovic, but it has come up cherries for him.

Tight, tight, tight out there.

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC Radio 5 Live

"This is a big set for Richard, not only physically but Novak has been scratchy, making a couple of errors. He is not going to do that for the rest of the match so Gasquet has to take his chances."

John McEnroe

Three-time Wimbledon champion on BBC TV

"An awful lot has happened in his game already. Gasquet would take this right now after his start."

PA

It is like a celebrity Where's Wally in the Royal Box today.

Sachin Tendulkar, Bjorn Borg, Thierry Henry, Rod Laver, Virat Kohli, Sienna Miller, Dame Shirley Bassey, Chiwetel Ejiofor and Anna Wintour are all there for you to pick out.

Richard Gasquet is giving them a match to get into as well. Novak Djokovic slaps away a fine backhand winner for 40-30, but there have not been enough of those magic shots just yet and Gasquet rains down a spicy serve to see off the danger.

Get involved via #bbctennis

Alison Bacon: Go Gasquet! Looking like a match :)

Alex Lukic: Gasquet's backhand is out of this world!! One of the best sights in tennis.

AFP

It is not just the Richard Gasquet backhand that is giving Novak Djokovic some food for thought.

The Frenchman's forehand injects some sudden pace into a baseline rally at 30-30 and Djokovic is scrambling. Gasquet into the net. A patter-cake exchange of volleys that Mansour Bahrami would admire follows before Djokovic finds the killer angle.

Djokovic's serve is still proving slippery for Gasquet and completes the getaway. But there were more promising signs for the Frenchman.

John Lloyd

Former British number one on BBC Radio 5 Live

If Gasquet loses the first set then psychologically it will be very difficult for him to get past that with the kind of matches he has had in the earlier rounds."

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC Radio 5 Live

"Novak was definitely suffering from a hangover after Paris but the good thing about hangovers is that they go away quickly."

Getty Images

Bjorn Borg and his companion are doing nothing to dispel Swedish stereotypes in the Royal Box.

Down below them Richard Gasquet is making himself at home - much like a piece of flat-pack furniture from the Bjorgs' homeland.

The Frenchman holds to 15 in some style.

John McEnroe

Three-time Wimbledon champion on BBC TV

"That'll give Gasquet a bolt of adrenaline. The crowd are buzzing for him to find his way into this early on."

Get involved via #bbctennis

Ed Allchorne: Who saw that break back coming??? What a crucial response from Gasquet!

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC Radio 5 Live

"Novak is testing Gasquet out. I don't think Gasquet has the legs to go the distance. It is pretty hot out there and I was sweating like a criminal in a church.

"I am happy that you didn't ask me about Novak's weakness because there is none. If I was his coach Sebastien Grosjean, I would tell Gasquet not to play neutral because it won't get you anywhere.

"Gasquet had the toughest road to the semis, beating some quality players."

Gasquet breaks

EPA

Novak Djokovic is snared by the tape. He sees off that break point.

But the Serb's timing is a little awry though. He is horribly late on a backhand to offer up another.

Richard Gasquet is bang on the dot with his own stroke. A beautiful clip seals the break and brings the opening set back on serve.

Djokovic taken to deuce

Better from Richard Gasquet, a flowing forehand, loaded with top spin, is too good for Novak Djokovic at the net and we are into deuce.

Leon Smith

GB Davis Cup captain on BBC Radio 5 live

"Novak is just too good and is the best player in the world for a reason. It's tough record for Gasquet against Novak.

"Gasquet has to get into some patterns of play, to get into cross-court exchanges with Novak, to use power and variety with his backhand and then switching to Novak's forehand, which is his weaker side.

"Gasquet just has to wait for his opportunity to apply some pressure on Novak's forehand side."

John McEnroe

Three-time Wimbledon champion on BBC TV

"To be up 40-15, on top of losing your serve, that is unbelievably deflating for Richard Gasquet."

Djokovic break

And the Serb necks the deuce in just two points for the sweet taste of break.

Gasquet flops a forehand into the net, Djokovic whips away a forehand that he can barely lay frame on.

Just the sort of game to remind the Frenchman of the 11-1 head-to-head record.

Gasquet taken to deuce

AFP

The birds love Novak Djokovic.

The Serb had to convince a blue tit to vacate the court in his first-round win. A pied wagtail, we think, has joined the party today.

You can see why they choose to fly in for the champion as he shows off a lovely delicate drop volley and then a crisp forehand across court to take Gasquet to deuce in his opening service game.

BBC

It doesn't look great for Gasquet does it?

Novak Djokovic's serve kicks in and veers out wide twice in succession to stretch Richard Gasquet all out of shape on return and carry the defending champion to 40-0.

At last, some rallies for Ree-Shaaard to get his backhand into. The Frenchman unfurls that trademark stroke with a conjuror's flourish and comes out on top in the next couple of points.

But that is all he is getting.

John McEnroe

Three-time Wimbledon champion on BBC TV

"Was Cilic expected to win the US Open? No. Richard Gasquet can not ask for a better opportunity. This is his chance."

Novak Djokovic to serve from beneath the Royal Box, right in Bjorn Borg's eyeline. Let's get this on...

Tim Henman

Former British number one on BBC TV

"I would be surprised if Gasquet got more than 10 games. Novak is going to dominate."

Blown Gasquet?

Richard Gasquet won't feel much better if he flicks back through the record books.

He has won just one of 12 meetings with Novak Djokovic, and that solitary victory came way back in 2007.

In their last nine matches, he has won a grand total of one set.

Richard Gasquet entertained Court One during his five-set semi-final win over Stan Wawrinka by re-gripping his racquets at top speed during changeovers.

I hope the Frenchman has packed a couple of miles of grip for today. He has only been in two Grand Slam semi-finals previous to this one and there is nothing like the prospect of a Wimbledon final to get the nervous tics ticking over.

Players out on court

Getty Images

Cheers Aimee - good work this morning.

Here come our first set of semi-final gladiators.

Out stride Richard Gasquet and Novak Djokovic into a Centre Court basking in sunshine. It as been a gorgeous couple of weeks so far. They have not even had to think about smashing the rain-break glass to release the emergency Cliff Richard and mic.

The curtain rises and Novak Djokovic and Richard Gasquet appear. That's my cue to hand you over to Mike Henson.

Bjorn Borg is making his way to the front row of the Royal Box. Rod Laver there, too. Thierry Henry a few rows behind the tennis greats. Were the Frenchman to reach out in front of him he could touch Dame Shirley Bassey's perfectly coiffured hair.

Full house at SW19

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No striding outside Centre. Spectators reduced to a shuffle as they form a river of humanity in an attempt to reach their destinations.

They've got less than five minutes to scoot to their spots if they want to see Novak Djokovic and Richard Gasquet walk out on court.

Murray - the experienced campaigner?

Tim Henman

Former British number one on BBC TV

"Having won the title there is a certain amount of pressure. In the early years he didn't find it so comfortable but now he's an experienced campaigner.

"In the first six months of this year he's played brilliantly and it's set up so well for semi-finals day."

BBC coverage

More Murray mania

John McEnroe

Three-time Wimbledon champion on BBC TV

"I notice in the couple of papers today there's a suggestion the crowd need to get a bit more behind Murray.

"At the Olympics, the crowd really made a difference. Roger is loved everywhere, it's almost like a home court for him.

"That could be the difference between winning and losing."

The 'feel' of the semi-finals

Andy Roddick

Former world number one on BBC TV

"It feels a little different to normal. You go into the locker room and there's nobody there, just you and your opponent. There's a presence.

"The first week at Wimbledon is bustling but now it's a little calmer around the outside courts. All the focus is on Centre."

BBC coverage

BBC Sport

Andy Roddick likes a check shirt. How do I know? Because he's wearing a lavender coloured one while chatting to Sue Barker.

Live BBC coverage with Barker and co has begun, which you can watch on our tennis page, BBC Sport app or BBC2.

What has everyone's favourite American (sorry, Jonny Mac) to say about this afternoon's ding-dogs? Funny you should ask...

Game, set and match

Good news for a Brit

PA

What a great start to the afternoon because Britain's Jordanne Whiley and Yui Kamiji are through to the final of the women's wheelchair doubles.

The top seeds were 6-0 6-3 winners against Britain's Louise Hunt and Germany's Katharina Kruger.

Centre Court primed

Music is being blasted out of Centre Court's sound system, some spectators are already in their seats - sun hats dominating - and this prime piece of real estate is toasting under the sun's rays. The atmosphere? Fizzing.

Good luck and good wishes

Chris Bevan

BBC Sport at Wimbledon

BBC Sport

"A few serves end Murray's practice session and he is straight off court 15 without bothering to put his racquet in his bag or pick up his banana.

"He signed about 100 autographs after his hit here yesterday but there is just one lucky lad today, and Murray quickly disappears into the crowd to continue his preparations for his semi-final elsewhere.

"You can chart his progress back to the locker room by distant cheers and cries of "good luck Andy".

They call it puppy love

BBC Sport

Cuddly and cute with puppy dog eyes. No, we're not talking about His Royal Highness Prince Andrew, who is also in the Royal Box today, but the police pooches Andy Murray met at Wimbledon.

The British number one is a dog owner, of course. The best quote from the encounter? "That's a big poo, look at the size of that." You can watch Murray and the police puppies here.

The weatherman says...

We've briefly mentioned today's Wimbledon forecast, but BBC's Simon King has provided us with more detail.

"More summer sunshine at Wimbledon today and it’s going to turn very warm with maximum temperatures getting up to around 26°C," he says. 

"No issues expected for Saturday either with sunny spells and a high of 24°C. It turns a bit more interesting on Sunday however with the potential for a rather damp start to the day with outbreaks of rain."

Polling day

BBC Sport

It's that time again. Today we're asking you to vote for your men's final line up: Djokovic v Murray or Gasquet v Federer or Djokovic v Federer. You get the drift.

Listen again to 6-Love-6

The arrival of Andy Roddick to the BBC's Wimbledon commentary team seems to have gone down a treat.

The former world number one joined Tim Henman and John McEnroe for BBC Radio Five live's 6-Love-6 on Thursday, and you can listen again on this link.

Luckily, as it's radio. you don't have to witness McEnroe's questionable attire.

BBC

Who chooses the practice courts?

Chris Bevan

BBC Sport at Wimbledon

BBC Sport

"It is the players who choose which of the outside courts they practice on before matches and Murray is obviously a fan of no.15 because he has been hitting here all week.

"The condition of all the courts here looks much the same to me - green, well manicured and a bit worn around the baseline - but I'm told Djokovic's coach Boris Becker loves court five, just like Stan Wawrinka who I heard describe it as "the ninth best court in the world" last week."

Jam-packed queue

At 9am this morning there was plenty of room to manoeuvre in Wimbledon Park, but there seems to have been a late dash to join the queue in the last few hours.

The Andy Murray show

Chris Bevan

BBC Sport at Wimbledon

BBC Sport

"Andy Murray is back out on court 15 practicing for his semi-final against Roger Federer - it's a bit quieter than it was when he was here yesterday, but not much. There are about a dozen TV cameras tracking Murray's every move, and about the same number of snappers clicking away while the Scot batters down a succession of shots from the baseline."

Today's special guests are...

BBC Sport

The Royal Box has been vacuumed and dusted, its cushioned seats puffed to perfection and sweet bowl restocked.

Will David Beckham make it three days on the trot at the All England Club? There'll be plenty of va va voom even without him because Sir Alex Ferguson and Thierry Henry are in attendance.

You know, one's the former Manchester United manager and the other used to play football for Arsenal.

Crowds gathering on the hill

Becker & Djokovic holding hands?

Chris Bevan

BBC Sport at Wimbledon

"Djokovic, Becker and the rest of the Serb's coaching team crouch down by his chair at the end of the session, hold hands and seem to be conducting a kind of séance while muttering a few words. Not sure what that was all about.

"Slightly awkwardly, Djoko's semi-final opponent today, Richard Gasquet, has already arrived at the same court for his practice session. He only watched Djoko return a few serves so cannot really be accused of spying."

Order of Play

BBC Sport

If you need to know who is playing and when I can help with that. Novak Djokovic and Richard Gasquet's curtain raiser begins at 13:00 BST, with headline acts Andy Murray and Roger Federer following them.

Becker's knobbly elbows causing a stir

Chris Bevan

BBC Sport at Wimbledon

BBC Sport

"Djokovic's coach Boris Becker does not seem to do a lot apart from feed balls to the defending champion. Talk between them in these sessions is minimal. There is far more chit-chat going on in the crowd as the man next to me points out to his friend how knobbly Becker's elbows are - word is obviously spreading."

Here comes the sun

Andy Murray won the opening set in that 2012 Wimbledon defeat, but then the rain clouds visited SW19, the roof closed and indoors Roger Federer reigned supreme. But Centre Court's retractable roof will have to find employment elsewhere today because, weather-wise, it's going to be a magnificent day.  

Practice makes perfect

Chris Bevan

BBC Sport at Wimbledon

BBC Sport

"A relaxed and smiling Novak Djokovic arrives for his practice session on court 5. A few jokes with coach Boris Becker, and a swig of bright pink liquid, and he is ready to go."

When Andy met Roger...

If you've been without wireless, phone, computer or television for the last 48 hours you may not know Andy Murray takes on Roger Federer this afternoon, although I have already mentioned once or twice...

What happened when Andy last met Roger on London's most famous lawn? A defeat which led to a tear-jerking speech. But since that 2012 Wimbledon loss, the Scot has gone on to secure Olympic gold at the All England Club and two Grand Slam titles.

PA

What has Federer won since his record-equalling seventh Wimbledon win? Nothing. The Swiss is still stuck on a mere 17 majors.

Queues, bruises, goosebumps

The queue isn't as grand as it once was and the emerald lawns of SW19 are now blistered and bruised, but the hallowed turf still has the stomach for more.

We're at the goosebump-inducing stage of the championships because world number one Novak Djokovic is attempting to push a Frenchman with a beguiling backhand to one side, while Britain's Andy Murray is hoping to dupe the greatest of the greats. Live sport doesn't get much better than this.

Welcome to day 11

There's no need to bang drums, toot horns or blow trumpets because the names say it all today: Andy Murray, Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Richard Gasquet.

BBC Sport

Welcome to Wimbledon's men's semi-finals day. Hopefully you have cushions to hide behind or a hat to chew for when the tension rises because it will be as taut as a tightrope on Centre Court this afternoon.

What a year that was

The summer of 2012. It started with rain and tears. It wasn't easy. But heartbreak and near misses was part of the nation's sporting makeup.

PA

Yet as July turned to August, the clouds separated, skies turned blue and the nation became giddy as sporting heroes in red, white and blue were sprinkled with gold dust.

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A not to be forgotten period in time which, for some, was a springboard to greater things.