Fourth-round play at the Wimbledon championships finally got underway at 1 p.m. today after a delay of one hour caused by wet weather.
Matches were due to start at midday on the outer courts and at 1 p.m. on centre and number one courts, but rain showers and a heavily overcast sky threatened the first major disruption of the tournament.
But what had looked to be an extremely optimistic weather forecast, for a brighter afternoon punctuated by showers, was vindicated when the sun finally broke through soon after midday.
The tournament escaped a major disruption in the first week but an extended interruption today could cause scheduling problems for the organisers.
Wimbledon alone among the four grand slams has all fourth-round matches in both the men's and women's draws taking place on the Monday of the second week.
