AMDY MURRAY HAILED his second Wimbledon title as “extra special” as the Scot wept tears of joy following his emphatic victory over Milos Raonic in Sunday’s final.
Murray defeated the Canadian 6-4, 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (7/2) to win his third Grand Slam crown and become the first British man to lift multiple Wimbledon titles since Fred Perry in the 1930s.
The 29-year-old, who became Britain’s first male Wimbledon singles champion for 77 years in 2013, is the 12th man to enjoy more than one All England Club triumph.
Murray had sobbed in frustration after losing to Roger Federer in his first Wimbledon final in 2012, but four years later the tears were purely joyous.
“This the most important tournament for me every year. I’ve had some great moments here but also some tough losses the wins feels extra special because of the tough losses,” Murray said.
I played really good stuff today. Milos has had a great few weeks on the grass and had some unbelievable wins, that semi-final against Roger (Federer) was a great match.”
After the tension of his first Wimbledon final victory against Novak Djokovic, this was a much more serene affair as Murray cruised to the title with an almost flawless display.
He admitted his maiden Wimbledon success had passed by in a blur and he was determined to drink in the moment and celebrate for longer this time.
“I’m going make sure I enjoy winning this one, last time I was so relieved, there was so much stress and pressure I didn’t get as much a chance to enjoy it,” Murray said.
- Cheeky -
Murray has won all 12 of his matches since recently reuniting with coach Ivan Lendl, who was also in charge of the Scot’s backroom team when he last won Wimbledon.
But Murray aimed a cheeky dig at the notoriously taciturn Czech, who barely flashed a smile despite his player’s victory.
“He’s just lucky,” Murray smiled. “A big thank you to all of my team for all the hard work they’ve put in to help me.
“To all my family watching up there, I love all of you.”
Murray also defused an awkward situation when he referenced the presence in the Royal Box of British prime minister David Cameron, drawing jeers from sections of the crowd.
Huge thank you to everyone who came out to support. The Prime Minister of the country is here.
“Playing at a Wimbledon final is tough and I certainly wouldn’t want to be Prime Minister, it’s a tough job,” he said before disappearing into the plush corridors of Centre Court to be greeted by well-wishers including Prince William and Hollywood actor Benedict Cumberbatch.
Raonic admitted the bitter taste of defeat in his first Grand Slam final would linger for a while after he failed to become the first Canadian to win a major title.
“It’s a difficult challenge. Andy has been playing great and he deserved to win, congratulations to him,” he said.
This one is going to sting. I’m going to make sure I do everything I can to be back here for another chance.
“It’s been a phenomenal two weeks. I keep plugging away. Every single day I try to get better to give myself chances to get to these finals.”
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