Why the undercurrent of despondency? I, too, am really disappointed that Andy didn't make the final, but I'm as proud as punch of him and it took a herculean effort by Roddick to prevent him. Andy's still 6-3 up on head to head's.
He was 22 only last month, when he also became No3 in the world rankings. I believe he's still improving and I really don't think we'll see the best of him for 2-3 more years. And physically, he's still developing.
He has flown the British flag singlehandedly throughout the tournament and for one so young has handled the unrelenting pressure and glare of publicity immaculately.
We should celebrate his achievement for it is no mean feat to come within an ace (no pun) of the final of the greatest grass court tournament in the world.
For example, Tim Henman, our previous "great white hope" was nearly 24 before he reached his first Wimbledon semi and was almost 28 before achieving his highest world ranking of 4.
So let's put Andy's successes of the past 10 days in perspective. He may still be "in waiting", but I think he's a champion already.