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Live Commentary: Olympic tennis - day eight as it happened

:Headline: Live Commentary: Olympic tennis - day eight as it happened: ID:38232: from db_amp
Live text coverage of the penultimate day of the Olympic tennis event at Wimbledon, where medal matches are taking place, courtesy of Sports Mole.

Good morning and welcome to Sports Mole's live text coverage of the penultimate day of Olympic tennis action at Wimbledon.

Today sees the first of the medal matches taking place at the All England Club, with golds, silvers and bronzes all to be awarded.

The main draw is the women's gold-medal match, where Serena Williams faces Maria Sharapova for the Olympic title.

Follow ALL of the action with us below.


8.39pmWell, that's all from us today. It's been another sensational day's play at the All England Club and we hope you'll be able to join us tomorrow for a whole host of medal matches. Andy Murray is contesting in two finals (the men's singles and mixed doubles), while there's also a gold medal match in the women's doubles. We'll also have the bronze medal matches from the men's singles and women's doubles. Is that enough for you?! We hope it is and we also hope that you'll be around to join us for all of it. Take care, goodnight and we'll see you tomorrow.

8.36pmVictoria Azarenka has her head in her hands as she realises that she will be able to add to her singles bronze with another medal in tomorrow's mixed doubles final. The Belarusians will be taking on home favourites Laura Robson and Andy Murray in what will be the first mixed doubles final at an Olympic Games since 1924.

8.32pmGAME, SET AND MATCH! Azarenka/Mirnyi 3-6 6-4 10-7 Raymond/M Bryan

8.31pmBut the Americans take the next point, 9-7 now!

8.31pmAzarenka/Mirnyi take the next point and they're just one away from the final!

8.30pmIt's 8-6 now...

8.28pmOh, but the Belarusians go 8-4 ahead thanks to Mirnyi's tidy volley.

8.28pmOh, but the Belarusians go 8-4 ahead thanks to Mirnyi's tidy volley.

8.28pmSomething of a comeback from Raymond/M Bryan? They've pulled it back to 7-4.

8.27pmNow 7-2. The final is within touching distance.

8.26pmThey go 6-2 ahead...

8.25pmThe Belarusians are steaming ahead here, 5-2.

8.24pmMake that 3-2 to Azarenka/Mirnyi

8.22pmIt's a great start for the Belarusians as they go into a 2-0 lead but the Americans then take the next point.

8.22pmInstant drama in this one as the Belarusians break to level the match. We'll now have a Champions tie-break which is a first to 10 points tie-breaker.

8.21pmSET! Azarenka/Mirnyi 3-6 6-4 Raymond/M Bryan

8.17pmMoving on now and we've only got one more match being played today and that is the mixed doubles semi-final between Azarenka/Mirnyi and Raymond/M Bryan. The Americans took the opening set 6-3 and it's with serve at 4-4 in the second. The winner of this one will play Laura Robson and Andy Murray in tomorrow's final.

8.12pmThe Americans will meet the Czech pairing of Andrea Hlavackova and Lucie Hradecka.

8.10pmWhat a day this is turning out to be for the Williams family. First was Serena's gold in the singles and now she and sister Venus will play for a second consecutive gold in the women's doubles tomorrow.

8.09pmGAME, SET AND MATCH! Williams/Williams 7-5 6-4 Petrova/Kirilenko

8.06pmThe Williams sisters get another couple of match points but again they can't take them. Instead, Petrova puts away a volley and it's advantage to the Russians.

8.02pmBut the Russians save them both!

8.01pmTwo match points for the Williams sisters...

8.00pmA wonderful forehand down the line from Serena Williams there and it's 15-30.

Kirilenko/Petrova 5-7 4-5* Williams/WilliamsThey were 0-30 down there but the Williams sisters, helped by the serves of Venus, manage to hold. The last serve, at 119mph, nearly took Kirilenko's head off. The Russians will now serve to stay in the match.

Kirilenko/Petrova 5-7 4-4* Williams/WilliamsIt's Petrova now who is putting in the powerful serves and it's 4-4.

Kirilenko/Petrova 5-7 3-4* Williams/WilliamsThere's that Serena Williams serve again. Annother stinging ace gives the Americans a love game.

Kirilenko/Petrova 5-7 3-3* Williams/WilliamsMeanwhile, Kirilenko's forehand is too hot to handle for Serena and the Russian's make it 3-3.

7.46pmSET! Azarenka/Mirnyi 3-6 Raymond/M Bryan

7.45pmThe Russians have a chance to hold but Petrova's long volley brings it to deuce.

Kirilenko/Petrova 5-7 *2-3 Williams/WilliamsBoom. It's a hold to love for the Williams sisters as Serena whacks a ferocious vollley out of Kirilenko's reach.

Kirilenko/Petrova 5-7 2-2* Williams/WilliamsHello again! Right, the Russians have just held so we're at 2-2 in this second set.

7.35pmOk, that's me done for the day. I'm gonna hand over to Jack again to see you through to the end of the day's play. Enjoy...

Kirilenko/Petrova 5-7 *1-2 Williams/WilliamsNice hold from Serena as Kirilenko hits long on the return.

Kirilenko/Petrova 5-7 1-1* Williams/WilliamsThe Russians are off to an encouraging start as they hold to-love.

7.27pmIt's on serve over on No. 1 in the early stages at 2-2 between Belarus and the US.

Kirilenko/Petrova 5-7 *0-1 Williams/WilliamsIt's a horrible start for Venus as she drops to 0-30 but the Americans respond and hold through, with the ganglier of the two pulling off a super stop volley on-the-reach.

7.24pmIt'll be Venus to get us underway in the second.

7.20pmIt was coming and Serena whips away an angled forehand as the first set is wrapped in 56 minutes.

7.19pmPetrova saves the first with an ace.

7.18pmThree more for set points for Verena.

7.17pmThey've just started over on No.1 in the second mixed doubles semi. Updates will of course be with you throughout the match.

Kirilenko/Petrova *5-6 Williams/WilliamsNo such problems for Serena on serve as she holds to-love. Will Petrova be able to withstand the barrage in the next game?

Kirilenko/Petrova 5-5* Williams/WilliamsSo the Russians save two set points before just holding out.

7.12pmWe're still at deuce in this game and it's a real struggle for Kirilenko to hold on to her serve.

7.08pmAnd it's two set points for the Americans...

Kirilenko/Petrova *4-5 Williams/WilliamsVenus doesn't let the challenge issue affect her, holding serve with ease and the American two-time gold medallists are within a game of the first set.

Kirilenko/Petrova 4-4* Williams/WilliamsIt's a good hold in the end from the Russians and there's a bit of controversy as Petrova seems to make a very late challenge. Venus now serving either way.

7.00pmSerena wastes the chance to get a break by hitting straight at Kirilenko before Petrova puts away a backhand.

6.57pmThat's a marvellous backhand rally between Venus and Petrova. The Americans come out on top in the end after Serena had to duck out of the way of a Venus shot. Back to deuce on Petrova's serve.

6.54pmWe're still waiting to find out who Robson and Murray will face in the gold-medal final in the mixed doubles. The second semi is due to get underway on No. 1 at any minute, with Victoria Azarenka and Max Mirnyi of Belarus up against Lisa Raymond and Mike Bryan of America.

Kirilenko/Petrova *3-4 Williams/WilliamsOk, so it's down to Serena to pull it out of the bag. And she does. Another ace from the singles gold medallist is enough as the Williams's move ahead again.

6.49pmThat's great net play from the Russians as they deny Serena the game and we're at deuce.

6.47pmSerena in a spot of bother at 30-30 as Petrova bullets a backhand winner up-the-middle.

Kirilenko/Petrova 3-3* Williams/WilliamsKirilenko is on fire! The women's singles 14 seed holds serve to-love, winning the game with a blistering backhand that flies past Serena.

Kirilenko/Petrova 2-2* Williams/WilliamsThe Russians will not be overawed by their famous opponents. Petrova produces a lovely service game to bring us back level.

Kirilenko/Petrova *1-2 Williams/WilliamsSerena recovers from 15-30 to hold serve.

6.35pmTomorrow's schedule has just been released and Andy Murray will play his mixed doubles gold-medal match straight after his single tussle with Federer for gold. What a day!

6.31pmNot the start Serena wanted on serve as she double faults. Peculiar.

Kirilenko/Petrova 1-1* Williams/WilliamsSerena won't have it as easy as she did in the singles earlier today as the Russians hold.

Kirilenko/Petrova *0-1 Williams/WilliamsA pleasant hold from the Americans to start us off on Centre.

6.19pmThe Williams's have won two golds in this event already, at Sydney 12 years ago and in Beijing at the last Games.

6.17pmThe golden girl is alongside sister Venus, while on the other side of the net is the Russian duo of Nadia Petrov and Maria Kirilenko.

6.15pmOk, Serena Williams is back out on Centre Court in her women's doubles semi-final.

6.05pmWe'll be back in just two minutes as there's still two more games to come today! Hang on..

6.00pmThe Bryans are now high-fiving every member of the front row in typical American fashion. How corny.

5.58pmThere's a lovely blonde attendant trying to get the Bryan brothers all the way round their lap of honour and she's a little annoying in continually tapping them on the shoulder to pose for pictures.

5.57pmThat's nice. The French quartet pose for a 'vive la France' photo before tossing their victory flowers into the Centre Court crowd.

5.55pmThe famous stars and stripes is just about hanging on this time (it blew away for Serena's gold ceremony earlier!)

5.55pmIt's hand-on-heart time for the 32-year-old twins as the American national anthem is blasted out over Centre Court.

5.55pmSo much for the demise of American tennis eh? That's two out of two for the US at the Olympic tennis.

5.54pmThis, however, is their first Olympic gold medal, eclipsing their bronze from Beijing four years ago.

5.53pmBut now the gold and the great Bryan brothers, who have dominated the men's doubles game for a number of years.

5.53pmNext up is Llodra and Tsonga, collecting their silver medals.

5.52pmGoodness me Mr Benneteau looks oh so very French. Ooh la la.

5.51pmFirst up to collect their bronze medals will be Julien Benneteau and Richard Gasquet, who beat David Ferrer and Feliciano Lopez earlier on today.

5.50pmWowee wowee woo! What an afternoon. As I said, next up on Centre is the men's doubles medal ceremony. We've got four Frenchman to collect the bronze and silver, while it's yet another gold for the US with Bob and Mike Bryan.

5.47pmIf anyone reading this has Centre Court tickets for tomorrow, I'll eat whatever, drink whatever, do whatever to have them! What a day for GB in prospect.

5.44pmExcuse me for taking a couple of minutes to go and get myself a glass of water. We're now back on Centre Court, waiting for the men's doubles medal ceremony.

5.40pmClick here for our concise report of the Americans' victory.

5.39pmMeanwhile, as I got caught up in all the excitement on No.1, the Bryan brothers have just won the men's doubles gold medal over on Centre!

5.38pmDoesn't that sound good eh?

5.37pmRight everybody, let's just calm down a little bit. Great Britain are now guaranteed two medals in the tennis as Murray is in the men's singles gold-medal match against Federer and Murray and Robson are in the mixed doubles gold-medal match.

5.35pmRobson found another first serve, with Lisicki hitting the tape with the return. Murray put the ball back in play before a few more baseline exchanges. Then Lisicki again hit the tape before the young German sent a forehand wide. Spark wild celebrations in No. 1 Court. Final score: Robson/Murray 6-1 6-7[5] 10-7 Lisicki/Kas

5.34pmAnd by the way, what a point to finish it...

5.33pmI've just leapt up in my chair! Gowan GB!

Third-set 'super' tie-break: GBR *9-7 GERIt's a first serve from the 18-year-old and Murray smashes away. Two match points...

Third-set 'super' tie-break: GBR *8-7 GERLisicki sure knows how to serve though and she finds a first serve that Robson mishits. Robson needs to win one of these points now, ideally both!

Third-set 'super' tie-break: GBR 8-6* GERThe crowd squeal with delight as Lisicki puts a backhand volley into the net. Two more...

Third-set 'super' tie-break: GBR 7-6* GERMurray sure knows how to deliver under pressure as he sends down another ace. GB three points from the final...

Third-set 'super' tie-break: GBR *6-6 GERAnd he does! A bullet ace out-wide that the Germans challenge but it's just clipped the line. Another change of ends and it's equal again. 6-6.

Third-set 'super' tie-break: GBR *5-6 GERAnd now an ace from the big man. Murray needs to do something similar.

Third-set 'super' tie-break: GBR 5-5* GERIt's another wonderful rally that ends with Kas putting away a backhand that Robson can't quite reach.

Third-set 'super' tie-break: GBR 5-4* GERYes! Lisicki tries to go past Murray on the return but it's not good enough. Robson's done well to hold both there.

Third-set 'super' tie-break: GBR *4-4 GERSuper from Robson as she finds a wide serve that Kas can't get back. Another one of those, please.

Third-set 'super' tie-break: GBR *3-4 GERLisicki finds another first serve and now Robson needs to compose herself on serve.

Third-set 'super' tie-break: GBR 3-3* GERThat's brilliant from Kas as he reacts to a Robson volley to finish the point. The pair change ends level at three apiece.

Third-set 'super' tie-break: GBR 3-2* GERSome super net rallying ends with Robson spooning out.

Third-set 'super' tie-break: GBR *3-1 GERThe Scot finds an unreturnable and GB have a two-point gap.

Third-set 'super' tie-break: GBR *2-1 GERAnd now Kas double faults! Unbelievable! Murray with two to serve now, come on Andy.

Third-set 'super' tie-break: GBR 1-1* GERLisicki pushes a forehand volley wide and the mini-break is restored.

Third-set 'super' tie-break: GBR 0-1* GERRobson begins the breaker with a double fault. Not the best start.

5.22pmI need to catch my breath! And so does Murray by the looks of things as he trots off for a quick break.

5.21pmLisicki finds a first serve and Murray can only net with the return. We're now into a 10-point super tie-break.

Second-set tie-break: GBR 7-8* GERRobson delivers another first serve and Murray has a volley but he puts it long! He smashes down his racket in anger and Lisicki will serve for the set.

Second-set tie-break: GBR *7-7 GERRobson finds a first serve and Murray's high backhand volley is too good for Kas.

Second-set tie-break: GBR *6-7 GERCan young Robson get it back? She isn't given a chance as Kas booms down an ace. Set point four on Robson's serve.

Second-set tie-break: GBR 6-6* GERWide from Kas! Three set points saved by GB! Another change of ends and the winner of the next point has a set/match point.

Second-set tie-break: GBR 5-6* GERRobson smacks away the overhead and it's now over to Kas to put this one to bed...

Second-set tie-break: GBR *4-6 GERKas has a second serve from Murray but he pushes the backhand long. Still two set points for Germany.

Second-set tie-break: GBR *3-6 GERKas puts away the volley and that's six in a row for Germany.

Second-set tie-break: GBR 3-5* GERMurray's return drops just long.

Second-set tie-break: GBR 3-4* GERThat's four points in a row for Germany as Robson's forehand hits Murray's back!

Second-set tie-break: GBR *3-3 GERMurray is presented with an easy volley but he plays it at Lisicki, who frames the ball and it drops agonisingly on the line! The four players change ends for the first time in the breaker.

Second-set tie-break: GBR *3-2 GERAnd it's an ace from the big German. Now over to Robson, you'd feel she has to win at least one of these two points.

Second-set tie-break: GBR 3-1* GERThe crowd let out a moan as Murray can't get his return over. Kas with one serve to come.

Second-set tie-break: GBR 3-0* GERAnother unreturnable from Muzza and it's 3-0! Just first to seven in this tie-break, remember.

Second-set tie-break: GBR *2-0 GERMurray finds an ace! It's challenged by the Germans but no good.

Second-set tie-break: GBR *1-0 GERIt's a great start to the breaker as Lisicki nets. Murray with two serves now.

Robson/Murray 6-1 6-6(0-0*) Lisicki/KasIt's a tie-break as Kas nets the return.

5.11pmBrilliant, brilliant groundstrokes from Robson as she trades angled cross-courts with Lisicki. Game point GB.

5.10pmKas's return is pants though and Murray swats away the danger. Back to deuce and Robson needs a first serve.

5.10pmAnd now a set point for the Germans...

5.09pmWe're at deuce on Laura's serve. Tense, tense times for Great Britain.

5.06pmLooking at this from a completely objective point of view, it's surprising that GB haven't won this already. They've dominated much of the game and will be surprised to be staring at the prospect of a 'super' tie-break.

Robson/Murray 6-1 *5-6 Lisicki/KasKas produces two first serves though and the Germans are within a game of the set. Robson must now hold and she hasn't looked too assured the last couple of service games.

5.04pmThe Brits are down 30-0 but they both produce unstoppable returns and it's back to 30-30.

Robson/Murray 6-1 5-5* Lisicki/KasGood, solid hold from Murray there to ease British tensions. Robson swipes away a forehand volley and it's over to Kas to serve.

Robson/Murray 6-1 *4-5 Lisicki/KasLisicki comes up with the goods at 30-30, first delivering a smashing ace before lashing away a forehand winner. The Germans are ahead in the set for the first time and Murray must now serve to stay in it.

4.58pmThe top seeds are through to the last four then, where they'll play Lisa Raymond and Mike Bryan for a place in the gold-medal match against the winner of this encounter.

4.57pmGAME, SET AND MATCH! Azarenka/Mirnyi 7-5 7-6[5] Mirza/Paes

Robson/Murray 6-1 4-4* Lisicki/KasBREAK BACK! No no Laura, no no. The 18-year-old double faults to gift the break to the Germans.

4.55pmIt's a break-back point for Germany as Robson mishits a backhand wide. 30-40...

4.53pmTop seeds Azarenka and Mirnyi are now into a second-set tie-break against Mirza and Paes of India over on 12.

Robson/Murray 6-1 *4-3 Lisicki/KasKas holds to-15 with an ace and that's the bearded German's first hold of the match. Now over to Robson to consolidate the break.

Robson/Murray 6-1 4-2* Lisicki/KasAn easy hold for Murray and Great Britain are now two games from a second guaranteed Olympic tennis medal.

4.49pmAmazingly the great Bryans have never won an Olympic gold. Their only medal came in Beijing four years ago - a bronze.

4.48pmSET! Bryan/Bryan 6-4 Llodra/Tsonga The Bryans take the opener in 41 minutes thanks to a single break of serve. They came under pressure serving at 4-3 but managed to stave off a French charge.

Robson/Murray 6-1 *3-2 Lisicki/KasBREAK! Murray plants the return to the Lisicki backhand and the 22-year-old goes for the jugular past Robson down-the-line and misses. Murray needs to open up a two-game lead again here.

4.46pmLisicki saves the first with another boomer down the middle that Robson can't return. What can Murray do?

4.45pmTwo more break points for the Brits on Lisicki's serve as Kas nets a volley. 15-40.

4.45pmIt's 7-5 6-5 to Azarenka and Mirnyi of Belarus. Could be finished very soon.

4.44pmJust resuming over on Court 12 is the last remaining mixed doubles quarter-final between Azarenka/Mirnyi and Miza/Paes. It's taken this long to play because of Azarenka's participation in the bronze-medal match earlier today, which she won.

Robson/Murray 6-1 2-2* Lisicki/KasBREAK BACK! Robson looks uneasy, clipping the tape with her first second serve before hitting a forehand long. Lisicki next to serve.

4.42pmA second break point for Germany now...

4.40pmRobson double faults at 40-30 and GB have thrown away two game points in this one.

4.36pmWow. You'd expect Kas, the only regular doubles player on court, to be dominative on serve but he's broken for a third straight time in the match as Murray finds the corner with a forehand. Can Robson consolidate the break?

4.35pm0-40 to Great Britain.

4.34pmKas will want to start strongly on his serve but Robson swipes a forehand winner onto the far sideline. Shot!

Robson/Murray 6-1 1-1* Lisicki/KasNo problem whatsoever for Muzza as GB move to 40-0 before Robson continues to look assured with a polished volley at the net that Lisicki can't scoop over the net.

Robson/Murray 6-1 *0-1 Lisicki/KasThat's a strong hold in the end from Germany. Lisicki saves three break points just with her big first serve. Murray now to take the ball and serve...

4.31pmBritain set up another break point as Robson blasts a forehand past the helpless Kas. Lisicki delivers another big serve though to stop the break.

4.29pmLisicki saves the first with a bullet ace and the second is also squandered as Murray nets a return. Back to deuce.

4.29pmTwo break points at the start of the second for GB as Murray's backhand volley is too good for Kas.

4.28pmYou'd normally expect the man to serve off first in a set but Kas has been rumbled so far.

4.26pmThe crowd on No. 1 seem more partizan than when a British player plays at Wimbledon. It's brilliant. Lisicki will, oddly, serve first in this set.

4.25pmWhat a set from the British duo! Robson finds another first serve and Lisicki spoons up a smash for Murray. Lisicki gets manages to get the first back over but Murray puts away the second and that's the opening set in just 20 minutes!

4.24pmRobson begins with two first serves and it's 30-0, two points from the set.

4.23pmKas is broken again. He can't continually serve into the hitzone of both British players. This time it's Robson who delivers a return at the German's feet and he can do little to stop it. Robson to serve for the set.

4.22pmIt's two more break points for Britain as Robson lashes down a forehand volley.

4.21pmBREAK! Over on Centre, the Bryan brothers have taken the early advantage against Tsonga and Llodra. The Americans are serving at 3-2.

Robson/Murray 4-1* Lisicki/KasMurray finds a first serve and Kas can only put his backhand into the middle of the mesh. This is a wonder start from Great Britain. The pressure will be on Laura to hold serve in the game after the next. Surely Kas will produce a better service game now than he did the first time?

4.19pmBlimey. Sabine is really trying to unload on the return with her forehand. She finds the net again though and it's game point GB.

4.19pmMurray does the business by ousting Lisicki in a mid-court battle. Back to deuce.

4.18pmLisicki lets out a yelp of anguish as she finds the net with a return. One break point saved...

4.17pmMurray in trouble on serve as Robson nets a volley. 15-40. The Germans have recovered from their early slump.

Robson/Murray *3-1 Lisicki/KasThe Brits would usually be thinking of targeting the woman's serve on the other side but Lisicki possesses one of the strongest in the women's game. She holds to-love and the Germans are on the board.

Robson/Murray 3-0* Lisicki/KasThis really is the perfect start from Great Britain. Robson holds serve as Murray wins through an encounter at the net with both Germans. Kas was targeting Robson in that game at the baseline but the 18-year-old more than responded.

4.13pmAs much as I'm rooting for Great Britain here, I do love Lisicki. She always plays with a smile and I've definitely got a soft spot for the 22-year-old.

4.11pmThat's brilliant from Robson as she goes blow-for-blow with male opponent Kas and coming out on top. 30-30.

4.10pmCan Robson now hold serve? She struggled a little under pressure in the quarter-final earlier today. Does playing already mean that the Brits are more 'in the zone' early on?

Robson/Murray *2-0 Lisicki/KasBREAK! This is a magnificent start from the Brits. They break to-15 as Robson forces Kas to send up an easy volley to Murray.

4.08pmOver on Centre the men's doubles gold-medal match is in the first game. Llodra and Tsonga serving.

4.07pmIt's looking good for Britain as Murray and Robson take their points-in-a-row tally to six points. 0-30.

Robson/Murray 1-0* Lisicki/KasThat's a perfect start for GB as Murray holds to-love. "GB" chant the crowd. Calm down, guys. Long way to go yet.

4.05pmIt'll be Murray to get us underway on serve...

4.04pmRobson and Murray have already played today, coming through a tough match with Australians Hewitt and Stosur. They're bound to be more tired then.
4.02pmThe German duo receive a loud cheer from the No. 1 crowd but it's completely drowned out by the roars when Murray and Robson are announced.

4.02pmIt won't be easy for the British pair, mind. They're up against Lisicki, a top singles player (and a young lady we're a big fan of here at Sports Mole) and Kas, the only doubles specialist on court this afternoon.

4.00pmTeam GB are already guaranteed a tennis medal as Murray is in tomorrow's gold-medal final against Roger Federer but can they secure another. Victory here would mean that silver, at the very least, would be in the bank.

3.58pmAlthough Jack said that we'd be focussing on the men's doubles final on Centre, we're actually going to switch our attentions over to No. 1 Court, where Great Britain's Laura Robson and Andy Murray are up against Sabine Lisicki and Christopher Kas of Germany in a mixed doubles semi-final.

3.56pmMerci beaucoup Monsieur Prescott.

3.52pmThat's all from me for today, folks. I'll now be handing you back to the ever-capable Pascal Lemesre who will guide you through play for the rest of the day. Enjoy!

3.50pmRight, we're sticking on Centre Court because up next is the men's doubles final between the Bryan brothers of the USA and the French pairing of Michael Llodra and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga.

3.46pmWhile all that was going on the French team of Julien Benneteau and Richard Gasquet have won the bronze medal in the men's doubles thanks to a 7-6[4] 6-2 win over David Ferrer and Feliciano Lopez of Spain. Well done, boys!

3.43pmThe players take a lap of honour around Centre Court, posing for photographs with their medals.

3.42pmIn an hilarious twist, the American flag blows away in the Centre Court wind. Brilliant.

3.41pmAnd here's the USA's national anthem. Heard this a few times over the Games, haven't we?

3.41pmAnd now here's Williams, bouncing up and down with joy. The deserved winner of the gold medal.

3.40pmUp steps Sharapova next, greeted lovingly by the crowd. She will be disappointed with today but I'm sure a silver medal wil still mean something to her.

3.39pmCheeky from Azarenka there as she tries to grab the gold off the medal plate.

3.38pmSerena looks thrilled to bits, a huge smile across her face.

3.37pmHere we go then. 'Chariots of Fire' comes over the sound system as Serena Williams (gold), Maria Sharapova (silver) and Victoria Azarenka (bronze) make their way out to great applause.

3.32pmWe've got some hideous muzak playing out on Centre Court while we wait for the medal ceremony.

3.29pmDoes this latest achievement make Serena Williams the greatest female tennis player of all time?

3.28pmFlicking through this dusty old history book of mine, Williams is the FIRST player to complete the Career Golden Slam in both singles and doubles. Take a bow.

3.26pmWe now have groundstaff scurrying around to set up the podium for the medal presentation...

3.25pmWilliams now joins Steffi Graf, Andre Agassi and Rafael Nadal as one of only four players to have won all four Grand Slams and an Olympic gold medal.

3.23pmWow. Serena Williams fittingly hits an ace to win the gold medal and complete the Career Golden Slam. She's quite simply one of the best to have played the game, man or woman. The American absolutely mauled Maria Sharapova today and is the deserving winner of that gold. Stunning.

3.22pmSERENA WILLIAMS WINS THE GOLD MEDAL TO COMPLETE THE CAREER GOLDEN SLAM

3.21pmGAME, SET AND MATCH! S Williams 6-0 6-1 Sharapova

Serena 6-0 *5-1 SharapovaBREAK! And there it is! Williams smashes home the break point and she will now serve for the gold medal.

3.15pmSharapova double faults twice to make it 0-30.

Serena 6-0 4-1* SharapovaYou have to look at that as a chance wasted for Sharapova. She squanders two break points as Williams eventually holds. Can't see her getting too many more opportunities like that to get herself back into this one.

3.10pmThe Russian brings up a break point but Williams holds her nerve to hit a forehand winner.

3.08pmWilliams double faults (yes, you read that right) and it's deuce. A chance for Sharapova?

3.06pmSET! Benneteau/Gasquet 7-6[4] Ferrer/Lopez

Serena 6-0 *3-1 SharapovaAt least it won't be a double bagel. Sharapova wins her first game of the match after 47 minutes. Williams leads 3-1.

3.02pmSharapova wins a point and it's 15-15!

3.00pmWe've got some shots of Russian fans in the crowd and to be fair to them they're smiling as if to say 'What can you do?'

Serena 6-0 3-0* SharapovaWilliams holds again with a love game. She seals it with a controlled forehand into the corner with Sharapova beat.

Serena 6-0 2-0 SharapovaBREAK! This is getting embarrassing now for Sharapova. Williams is simply playing some of the best tennis seen on this famous court and looks well on course for that gold medal. Incredible.

Serena 6-0 1-0* SharapovaWilliams starts where she left off in that first set with a comfortable hold to get this second underway.

2.52pmCentre Court is suddenly a lonely place for Maria Sharapova.

2.51pmWow. That is as dominant a set as you're likely to see at these Olympics. Williams hits home set point and brings up the 'bagel' (6-0). It's the first time that's happened in what is now the 11th meeting between these two.

2.49pmSET! Williams 6-0 Sharapova

2.47pmAnother wonderful backhand down the line brings up a set point for Williams.

2.45pmThe Russian scuffs her shot wide and it's deuce. Nothing is going her way right now.

2.44pmSharapova moves onto 40-15 but Williams takes the next point with a bludgeon of a backhand down the line.

2.41pmThe Russian will serve to stay in this opening set.

2.39pmIt's diffcult to know what to say when you're presented with a performance like this. Williams looks unstoppable. Sharapova looks shellshocked.

Serena 5-0* SharapovaAnother couple of fizzing Williams aces helps her hold. She's just too good for the Russian right now.

2.35pmJust-about capable? Pah! Anyway, Williams breaks again with a forehand winner and this set looks like it's only going one way. The American leads 4-0/

2.30pmRight people, Sharapova is yet again down on her serve at 15-30 and it's time for my lunch. Don't worry, I'll be handing over to the just-about capable Jack Prescott. Enjoy his services!

2.28pmBBC Sport's Tracy Austin says that the Serena serve is the best the women's game has ever seen. You'd struggle to argue.

Serena 3-0* SharapovaSharapova is controlling the rally at 30-30 but she stoops for a backhand and pushes long to give Serena the chance of a hold. She takes it with yet another ace - that's five now.

2.26pmSharapova plays a good rally before Serena hits wide and it's 0-30 but Serena responds with a deep backhand and another ace (that's four, I'll try and keep count!) and we're back at 30-30.

2.25pmSerena may win gold but she won't get a golden set (where you win 24 points in a row) as Serena hits a forehand wide.

2.23pmThe American slapped away a forehand to win the set and she gave Sharapova a steely glare that certainly frightened me a little!

Serena *2-0 SharapovaBREAK! The American is yet to lose a point as she breaks to-love.

2.21pmOh, by the way, the roof has been opened for this match after Murray and Robson played their mixed doubles quarter under it earlier today. It's very, very gusty too on Centre and that won't help Sharapova, who has a high ball toss on serve. She starts with a double fault. Not encouraging.

Serena 1-0* SharapovaExpect more of that! Serena follows up the opening point with three aces, the last being a second-serve ace! Her serving has been quite ridiculous so far at the Games. How will Maria respond?

2.19pmThey've started at pretty much exactly the same time over on Court No. 1 in the men's doubles bronze-medal match. David Ferrer and Feliciano Lopez of Spain are up against France's Julien Benneteau and Richard Gasquet. Updates, of course, to follow.

2.18pmFirst point to Serena as Sharapova mishits a backhand wide.

2.17pmSerena has a quick comfort break after the warm-up and she's really taking her time here, getting a few boos from the crowd but we're ready to go...

2.15pmSerena will enter this match as favourite because of her recent Olympic success but if there's one woman who can outgun the American it's Maria.

2.10pmSteffi Graf, Andre Agassi and Rafael Nadal are the only three current members of the 'golden slam' club. One of these two will join them in around a couple of hours or so.

2.08pmThey're also both hoping to complete a 'career golden slam' - a rare achievement of winning all four Grand Slams (Australian, French, Wimbledon and US) and an Olympic gold medal in a career.

2.07pmThese two women are the last two grand slam champions, with Serena claiming the Wimbledon crown a month ago while Sharapova won the French Open earlier this year.

2.06pmOoh, before I do so, here comes Serena and she's soon followed by Sharapova, who's donning a dreadful jacket with Russia across the front. It's an awful mish-mash of red and white.

2.05pmWe're still awaiting the arrival of the two women on Centre but while we wait here's some facts.

2.02pmIt's the number three and four seeds taking on each other for the gold medal as Maria Sharapova faces Serena Williams.

2.00pmAzarenka was absolutely pummelled by Serena yesterday but has come back from that disappointment to produce a classy performance on No. 1. Next up on this court is the men's doubles bronze-medal match but we're turning our attention to the women's gold-medal encounter on Centre...

1.57pmAzarenka drops her racket and immediately wells up. She's absolutely delighted and kisses the Belarusian flag on her top before receiving a red and green flag from the crowd.

Azarenka 6-3 6-4 KirilenkoGAME, SET AND MATCH! Azarenka moves to 40-15 but Kirilenko saves the first bronze-medal point with a nice volley. Vicky does do it on the next as Kirilenko nets.

Azarenka 6-3 *5-4 KirilenkoKirilenko produces a solid game to force Azarenka to serve it out.

Azarenka 6-3 5-3* KirilenkoAzarenka lets out a massive scream of what sounded like "come on!" as Kirilenko's forehand goes wide. The world number one is now a game from the bronze medal.

1.46pmAzarenka has another chance to close out the game at advantage but Kirilenko clips the tape and the Belarusian pushes out. Back to deuce.

1.45pmAzarenka has two chances to move 5-3 ahead but Kirilenko shows some power in bringing it back to deuce.

Azarenka 6-3 *4-3 KirilenkoBREAK! And just as we join this match Azarenka breaks the Kirilenko serve again to take a 4-3 lead in the second.

1.38pmOk, we're shooting over to No. 1 Court now for the conclusion of the women's bronze-medal match. Give us a manual refresh and you'll be greeted with Vicky Azarenka hitting a forehand.

1.36pmMy oh my, hasn't it been a great couple of hours for Great Britain? Two golds and a silver at the rowing and now success in the mixed doubles.

1.33pmRobson can't stop smiling and why not! Murray now has a gold-medal match tomorrow and also a mixed doubles semi-final tonight! They'll play Sabine Lisicki and Christopher Kas of Germany in a match that is yet to be scheduled.

1.32pmTHEY'VE DONE IT! Hewitt gets a first serve in but Murray returns low. The Aussie responds with a nice volley but Murray's backhand is too good for Stosur, who nets and it's TEAM GB into the last four. Final score: Robson/Murray 6-3 3-6 10-8 Stosur/Hewitt

GBR 10-8 AUSGAME, SET AND MATCH!

GBR 9-8* AUSIt's match point Great Britain as Robson's second serve just finds the line and Stosur hits out. Hewitt to serve.

GBR *8-8 AUSHewitt nets a simple forehand and it's 8-8! If either pair wins two points here, that's it.

GBR *7-8 AUSShe does before Murray plonks a volley on the feet of Stosur. Robson has to hold her nerve here.

GBR 6-8* AUSAgain Stosur finds a first serve and Murray presents the return to Hewitt. Robson must return this...

GBR 6-7* AUSThat's what Murray needed. A big first serve down the middle and now it's Stosur on serve. The Brits will feel they need to break here.

GBR *5-7 AUSHewitt is on fire. He gambles on the backhand and finds the line with a superb return. Murray needs a first serve here as the four change ends again.

GBR *5-6 AUSBrilliant from Hewitt as he serves and volleys on a second serve. Murray can only watch as the Aussies volley finds the corner. Murray to serve two...

GBR 5-5* AUSThe crowd love it as Murray's low forehand can't be picked up by Stosur. Back level in the breaker.

GBR 4-5* AUSThat's great from Robson. She's held both serves as Murray's volley can't be returned by Hewitt, who will now have two serves.

GBR *3-5 AUSRobson produces a brilliant second serve as Hewitt tries to run round his backhand but he can't get his body out of the way.

GBR *2-5 AUSStosur has held on both points as Robson's return is gobbled up by Hewitt at the net. He's well up for this, you know.

GBR 2-4* AUSThat's arguably one of her best serves to Murray as she fires a kicking wide serve that Murray pushes long. The pair change ends for the first time.

GBR 2-3* AUSBetter from Andy as he sends down a first serve that Stosur can only net. She now has two serves.

GBR *1-3 AUSMurray loses one of his service points as Hewitt produces a brilliant low return.

GBR *1-2 AUSHewitt really has served well and he delivers another great second serve to hold both his points.

GBR 1-1* AUSRobson hits wide and long and we're level. Hewitt has two serves here.

GBR 1-0* AUSThe point had to be replayed as the ball girl ran across the court when she thought the point was over. Robson regains her composure and goes blow-for-blow with Stosur before the Aussie nets. Good start.

GBR *0-0 AUSHere we go then.

13.17As I said before, it's first to ten but if it reaches 9-9 then it'll be the first to two-clear points. Momentum is certainly with the Aussies but if Robson can find her feet again and Murray hits some first serves then I favour the Brits.

Robson/Murray 6-3 3-6 *0-0 Stosur/HewittSET! The first is saved as Stosur gets tangled up at the net but Hewitt bangs down an ace and we're into a 'super' tie-break.

1.16pmBrilliant second serve from Hewitt and now it's three set points for the Aussies.

1.15pmBREAK! Azarenka looks to be marching to the bronze medal as she breaks in the first game of the second set against Kirilenko over on No. 1.

Robson/Murray 6-3 3-5* Stosur/HewittBREAK! Uh oh! Murray's swipes his backhand volley wide at 0-30 and then Robson's forehand is rubbish and barely gets to the net. Hewitt will now serve for the set.

1.13pmRobson is in trouble at 0-30.

Robson/Murray 6-3 *3-4 Stosur/HewittBREAK BACK! The Brits, after looking down and out, are back in this set. Murray sends a return right into the jaws of Hewitt at the net but the former Wimbledon champion hits his forehand volley long! It's now up to Robson again to level this one up. Come on love!

1.10pmBreak-back point as Stosur hits way long...

1.10pmStosur double-faults and it's 30-30.

Robson/Murray 6-3 2-4* Stosur/HewittMurray is taken to deuce but he holds on and now the Brits will look to break Stosur's serve.

1.07pmSET! Whoosh. Kirilenko held serve to level the first set at 3-3 against Azarenka but the Belarusian has just won three in a row to take the set 6-3. Advantage to the number one seed in the bronze-medal match.

1.05pmMagnificent athleticism from Hewitt as he tracks down Murray's angled volley, Robson gets it back over but Stosur is ready and waiting to put away the volley. 30-30 on the Murray serve.

1.04pmIt was all looking so good about 10 minutes ago but all of a sudden the guys from Down Under look good for the second. If they do go on to take it then we'll play a match-deciding 'super' tie-break, where, as opposed to the usual seven-poin breakers, it's the first to 10.

Robson/Murray 6-3 *1-4 Stosur/HewittThat's TEN points in a row for the Aussies now as Hewitt holds to-love.

Robson/Murray 6-3 1-3* Stosur/HewittBREAK! Oh Laura. The young Brit isn't so assured on serve this time and is soon 0-40 down before Hewitt steps inside the baseline and hits a backhand return winner for the break.

1.00pmBREAK BACK! Kirilenko has just broken back against Azarenka on No. 1. I'm a little surprised as I thought Vicky might run away with that.

Robson/Murray 6-3 *1-2 Stosur/HewittRobson sets up a break-point opportunity with a delicious backhand return winner. Stosur smashes away the chance before Robson again hits a return winner, this time a forehand that whistles past Hewitt. Murray frames the next return as the Brits miss out again before Stosur does hold as her second serve plonks on the service line, Murray challenges but it's no good.

Robson/Murray 6-3 1-1* Stosur/HewittIt's a tough hold for Murray as he is taken to deuce but the world number four comes through as Hewitt's lob drifts long. Now for Stosur to try and hold.

12.50pmIt does seem a little weird watching tennis at Wimbledon with players competing in coloured kit. I quite like it though. Robson and Murray are in navy tops, white shorts/skirt and red shoes, while the Aussies are in classic gold tops and green shorts/skirt.

Robson/Murray 6-3 *0-1 Stosur/HewittIt's Hewitt to open the serving in the second set and he just holds to-30 as Murray nets a forehand. As we're into a new set, Murray can serve first again, although in order it should be Robson next.

12.46pmThe heavy shower over on No. 1 was brief and Azarenka and Kirilenko are back out on court. Azarenka, of Belarus, has now taken an early break and leads 3-1 in the opening set.

Robson/Murray 6-3 0-0* Stosur/HewittSET! Murray brings his a-game again to bring up set point at 40-30 but Robson volleys long and we're at deuce. Stosur's next return is long and this time the Brits do close out the set as Stosur and Robson exchange volleys before the 18-year-old creates an angle on the backhand. Advantage GB.

12.42pmMurray is down 0-30 but comes up with a couple of big serves to level it at 30-30.

12.41pmIt's a lovely moment as the Brits break. Murray pummels the Stosur backhand before she balloons up the ball just over the net. Both Brits want to smash it away but it's Robson who asserts her authority to clinch the break. Murray will now serve for the set.

12.38pmSniff of a break here for Murray and Robson at 0-30.

Robson/Murray 4-3* Stosur/HewittThat's a fabulous from Robson as the Brits move ahead thanks to a love-hold, with Hewitt lashing a return long at 40-0.

12.34pmAzarenka was a game up and at 15-15 against Kirilenko before the rain came over on No. 1.

Robson/Murray *3-3 Stosur/HewittIt's a good hold in the end from the Aussies as Hewitt first serves an ace at deuce before Stosur puts away an overhead to bring the match level at 3-3.

12.32pmHere's a chance at 30-30 on the Hewitt serve but Murray slaps an easy volley wide.

Robson/Murray 3-2* Stosur/HewittMurray eases the pressure with an easy hold. This is often the way in mixed doubles, the men will hold serve with relative ease and it's up to the women to hold their serve to win the set.

Robson/Murray *2-2 Stosur/HewittBREAK BACK! That's more like it from the Robson and Murray. The first break point is saved but Murray forces Hewitt into an error at the net and we're back level.

Robson/Murray *2-2 Stosur/HewittBREAK BACK! That's more like it from the Robson and Murray. The first break point is saved but Murray forces Hewitt into an error at the net and we're back level.

12.25Two break-back points for the Brits...

Robson/Murray 1-2* Stosur/HewittBREAK! Robson and Murray save a pair of break points but the Aussies find a way through to earn the early advantage. Can Stosur outdo Robson in holding serve?

12.23It doesn't matter on Centre though as the officials must've known about this shower and put the roof over before play began.

12.22Play on the No. 1 Court has been suspended as the heavens open over SW19.

12.22RAIN! RAIN! RAIN!

12.20Saved as Hewitt hits long with a backhand.

12.19The Aussies have a break point...

12.18Bit of a worry as the Brits drop to 0-30 but Robson comes up with a big serve to get a point back.

12.17Next up it's Robson to serve. Can she stay strong?

Robson/Murray *1-1 Stosur/HewittHewitt emulates Murray in holding to-15 and we're level in the early stages on Centre.

12.15Now it's the turn of Aussie veteran Hewitt to take to the baseline.

Robson/Murray 1-0* Stosur/HewittMurray really has served well these games and he gets the Brits off to a great start.

Robson/Murray *0-0 Stosur/HewittIt'll be Murray to serve first here...

12.11We'll be putting our main focus on Murray and Robson's match on Centre, but fear not, we'll keep you bang up-to-date with the women's bronze match.

12.05pmMurray and Robson are first up on Centre Court, while over on the second showcourt, No. 1, the women's singles bronze medal match is taking place between Victoria Azarenka of Belarus and Maria Kirilenko of Russia.

12.00pmThe British pair are up against Lleyton Hewitt and Sam Stosur of Australia in a match that was cancelled last night because of Murray's late finish in the singles.

11.57amFirst up for us though is the mixed doubles quarter-final involving Andy Murray and Laura Robson of Great Britain.

11.52amThere's also plenty of doubles action, with the men's doubles gold medal to also be decided today. Vying for gold will be the Bryan brothers from the United States and the French duo of Michael Llodra and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga.

11.50amAway from the blokes, the women contesting for a gold medal today are Maria Sharapova of Russia and hot favourite from America, Serena Williams.

11.48amFederer's route to the gold-medal match was not so straightforward. The seven-time Wimbledon champion had to come through a marathon match, the longest in Olympic tennis history, against Juan Martin del Potro to reach the final.

11.46amYesterday we saw Great Britain's Andy Murray reach tomorrow's gold-medal final against Roger Federer with a straight-sets win over world number two Novak Djokovic.

11.42amSo here we are, seven days down and just two to go.

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