GIFT OF THE JAB

Ons battles back in a thriller to book final place

- ANDY DUNN

AT various points of a thrilling Wimbledon semi- final, it was hard not to feel just a little bit sorry for Aryna Sabalenka.

After all, it cannot be nice having an entire stadium willing against you.

When the Belarusian was serving to save a first match point, she had to stop her action because the encouragement for her opponent was so vociferous.

But this was the result the spectators wanted and, while they would never admit it, this was the result Wimbledon and the All England Tennis Club wanted.

The Princess of Wales will not have to present the Venus Rosewater Dish to someone whose country supports Russia’s war in Ukraine.

But that is just a bonus. The biggest plus is that the compelling talent and artistry of one of the most watchable players in tennis is back in a Wimbledon final.