Today's the day.

Andy Murray once again carries the hopes of a nation onto the centre court at Wimbledon.

Over the years, Murray has had his supporters and detractors in equal measure. Should he at long last hold that men's singles trophy aloft this afternoon, he will once and for all silence his critics.

Only a few hours – and the imposing figure of Novak Djokovic – stands between Murray becoming a tennis hero the likes of which a Wimbledon-fixated country has dreamed of for so long.

As Hugh MacDonald's essay in today's edition eloquently illustrates, the Andy Murray who steps on court this afternoon is a far cry from the young man of some years ago. Where once there appeared a crisis of confidence there is now a focus and dogged self-belief. Where once he seemed like the serial losing grand slam finalist, he now has that US Open victory and an Olympic gold medal behind him.

To all intents and purposes, Murray looks and plays like a man far more at ease with himself. In the tortuous journey to that place, Murray has won respect and rallied the nation behind a player many mistakenly and stereotypically labelled a "dour Scot".

At the risk of tempting fate there is a real sense that this could finally be his hour. While our hopes may again be dashed we should recognise that even without that Wimbledon title this is a sportsman of genius.

Win or lose today, Andy Murray has already well and truly earned his place among the pantheon of greats.