Smash hit

6.31pm: The crowd goes wild for a defeated and defeated-looking Andy Roddick, who I fear is going to cry.

6.26pm: Roddick 14 Federer 16 Rhythmic clapping builds around the court as Federer takes the first two points from Roddick. But his opponent simply won't budge, and hits right back to take the next three. Then an errant return brings them both to deuce, and Roddick looks very, very tired. He still takes the advantage, loses it again, and then it's Federer's turn - but it's not just an advantage; this is championship point. Roddick is exhausted, and he hits wildly at the ball; he's powerful with that forehand but not accurate and it's Federer's title.

6.22pm: Roddick 14 Federer 15 Had we already spotten Gavin Rossdale? If not, he's there, cheering on his chum Roger Federer.

6.20pm: Roddick 14 Federer 14 Federer thinks this is his moment to break - but AGAIN Roddick comes back. This is a proper epic encounter. I suspect this will hinge on mistakes now.

6.16pm: Roddick 13 Federer 14 There's an expectant hum around Centre Court.

6.14pm: Roddick 13 Federer 13 Federer pushes Roddick all the way to deuce, but a couple of weak returns allow the American to hold.

6.09pm: Roddick 12 Federer 13 The shadow is moving round Centre Court now; only a third is getting the bright early evening sunshine. This is the longest set in a men's singles final at Wimbledon - ever.

6.06pm: Roddick 12 Federer 12 This set has been going on for 74 minutes and it's no wonder everyone is tiring - the players, of course, but also poor Mirka, who must be singularly uncomfortable at the moment.

6.04pm: Roddick 11 Federer 12 Federer serves his 45th ace of the game.

6.01pm: Roddick 11 Federer 11 The games are becoming tighter - Federer takes two points and Roddick then serves into the net before handing Federer the next. Roddick isn't giving up - he takes the advantage and when Federer returns into the net, he takes the game.

5.57pm: Roddick 10 Federer 11 Roddick is desperate to shed his one-slam wonder tag, but this is a veritable stalemate at the moment.

5.54pm: Roddick 10 Federer 10 When Federer takes the first point, he thinks the trophy is in his grasp; but Roddick doesn't concede service games that easily.