PICTURES | Wimbledon looking lush, but sadly no 'play'

Things will be a little different in London, in particular SW19, this summer.

For the first time in tennis' Open era - and the first occasion since 1945 in fact - there will be no Wimbledon held in the last week in June and first week in July this year.

For fans of the sport, including legend of court Martina Navratilova, it represents a devastating blow to the sporting calendar.

Wimbledon, like golf's Masters, stands apart from the rest of the Grand Slams. There's just something a little more special about entering the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club gates - much like Augusta National - than other iconic sporting venues.

Alas, Covid-19 has put paid to holding the tournament this year, meaning 2019 singles winners Novak Djokovic and Simona Halep will reign as champions for another 12 months.

Founded 143 years ago in 1877, this year was due to be the 134th edition.

Spectators will have to wait until mid-2021 to get their fix of the strawberries and cream synonymous with the tournament.

But what of the courts?

Judging by pictures posted on the official Wimbledon Twitter page, it's looking green and lush - and itching to see the world's greatest players back in action.

- Compiled by Garrin Lambley

Still green and pleasant ??#Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/Trzmzds5rP

— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) May 11, 2020