Andy Murray CAN win Wimbledon, says Carole Middleton

The Duchess of Cambridge’s mother today told Andy Murray it could be his year to finally win Wimbledon.

Carole Middleton pledged the family’s support to the world No 2, saying she was sure he can triumph.

Murray, and his Olympics doubles partner Laura Robson, were both in action on Centre Court, after rain forced organisers to cancel the 19-year-old’s match on Court 2 yesterday. She received deafening support from thousands of “Murray maniacs” thankful today’s predicted showers would not be a factor under the retractable roof.

However, Murray, who faces Tommy Robredo in his third round clash, lamented having to play under the sliding cover — describing it as “weird”. He tweeted to his 1.5 million followers: “There’s a bit of me that misses there being no roof @wimbledon... still looks and sounds weird watching grass court tennis indoors.”

His defeat to Roger Federer in last year’s final was, in part, credited to the roof being closed after rain. It seemed to help the Swiss champion.

With top seeds tumbling, there are mounting expectations that Murray could now end the 77-year wait for a British win. Mrs Middleton, asked if the 26-year-old could do so, told the Standard: “He has a great chance. Why not?”

The Middletons, all of whom are huge tennis fans, have been at the All England Club at various points this week to watch the action.

Last year, Pippa, 29, came with her sister Kate. However with the Duchess preparing for the birth of her first child, it was left to brother James, 26, to accompany her. The pair sat in the royal box for the first day of the championships.

Pippa revealed she is partial to “pints of Pimm’s”. Writing in this week’s Spectator, she said: “I’d be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy a Pimm’s or three when I’m watching a game. Only pints will do, frankly, since half the glass is ice anyway. I try to smuggle mine under my chair and sip it when the cameras aren’t on me. Oversized sunglasses help the disguise and mean I can nod off unnoticed after one too many in the sun.”

Murray, 26, is hoping to avoid the fate of Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, who have all made early exits this year.