World no.1 Novak Djokovic failed at the final hurdle of the 127th edition of Wimbledon, losing 4-6, 5-7, 4-6 to no.2.seed Andy Murray on Sunday.
The battle between the two players who were born a week apart lasted 189 minutes.
Murray won his second Grand Slam championship, adding to his 2012 US Open triumph.
Andy got an early break, but Novak broke back immediately for 2-2. The Dunblane native earned three break points in the seventh game and used his first to move ahead. He closed the opening set after 59 minutes of play, taking advantage of Novak’s mistakes (17 UEs).
Djokovic was a break up in the second and third sets, but Murray fought back and earned a chance to serve for the title. The Scot converted his fourth match point in a dramatic final game to become the first British man since Fred Perry in 1936 to win the Wimbledon.
Match statistics: aces (4-9), double faults (4-2), winners (31-36), unforced errors (40-21), total points won (96-114).
“He was a better player in decisive moments,” Novak said. “I was up in the second and third sets and I allowed him to come back. He was getting some incredible shots, he was all over the court and played fantastic tennis. I should have played better in key moments. I wasn’t patient enough and my serve was not as good as it has been at this tournament but that is also because he is such a good returner.”
“It was an unbelievably tough match, so many long games,” Andy said. “I don’t know how I managed to come through that last game. Novak’s come back so many times from losing positions, and he almost did the same today. I’m so glad to finally do it.”
Djokovic was bidding to win the The Championships title for the second time, having lifted the trophy in 2011. He dropped to a 6-5 record in Major finals.
Today is exactly 10 years since Nole’s name appeared in the ATP Ranking List. He will add 480 ATP points for going a step further than last year, when he reached semis.
Novak has secured his place in the season-ending Barclays ATP World Tour Finals which will be held at The O2 Arena in London from 04-11 November.
The six-time Grand Slam champion and reigning Australian Open titlist will have a month to rest and prepare for the North American hard court season.
Before that, Novak and his Foundation will organise the inaugural London Gala charity dinner on Monday, July 8, at The Roundhouse, North London. The aim is to raise funds to invest in high-qualilty early learning opportunities for disadvantaged children.
Photo: AP
