Switzerland’s Roger Federer demonstrated that he deserves his No. 1 ranking as best in the world, beating Scotsman Andy Murray in straight sets 6–3, 6–4, 7–6 to win the Australian Open.
The win was Federer’s 16th Grand Slam championship, two more than any other male player. It was also a record-tying fourth Australian Open title.
“I’m over the moon, winning this again,” Federer told ESPN. “I think I’ve played some of my best tennis in my life these last two weeks. You guys [the fans] you get the best out of me, so thanks.”
“This is very special because it’s my first grand slam as a father,” Federer said. He is the father of six-month-old twins. “I m looking forward to next year maybe they’ll sit in the box as well on finals day.”
Federer started off by consoling his 22-year-old opponent. “Well done for your incredible tournament. You’re too good of a player not to win a grand slam so don’t worry about it.”
Federer might have been compassionate after the match, but on the court he didn’t give Murray an inch.
The win was Federer’s 16th Grand Slam championship, two more than any other male player. It was also a record-tying fourth Australian Open title.
“I’m over the moon, winning this again,” Federer told ESPN. “I think I’ve played some of my best tennis in my life these last two weeks. You guys [the fans] you get the best out of me, so thanks.”
“This is very special because it’s my first grand slam as a father,” Federer said. He is the father of six-month-old twins. “I m looking forward to next year maybe they’ll sit in the box as well on finals day.”
Federer started off by consoling his 22-year-old opponent. “Well done for your incredible tournament. You’re too good of a player not to win a grand slam so don’t worry about it.”
Federer might have been compassionate after the match, but on the court he didn’t give Murray an inch.
Federer came out strong, breaking Murray in his first service game and taking the first set 6–3. Murray fought back in the second set, but Federer was unstoppable.
Murray really upped the drama in the final set, forcing an epic 24-point tiebreaker, but Federer had the stronger serve, the more accurate forehand, and most important, the most confidence. Murray didn’t make it easy, but he couldn’t stop the Federer express.
Murray played too passively for most of the match. When he attacked the ball and moved to the net, he won points. When he tried to play from behind the baseline waiting for Federer to miss, Federer attacked and took control of the point, usually winning.
The real battle was mental and emotional. Federer came in confident, while Murray came in nervous. When he lost the first set, Murray lost his confidence. He started to pump himself up in the final set, but by then Federer was too close to victory, and wouldn’t be denied.
Murray acknowledged Federer’s dominance after the match. “I want to congratulate Roger. His achievements in tennis are incredible, and to keep doing it year after year is pretty special. He was a lot better than me tonight so well done for that.”
Murray tried to thank the fans for their support, but broke into tears halfway through.
“I’d like to thank all of you guys the support I got the whole tournament. I loved every minute. Hopefully one time I can come back and win.”
Murray was playing in his second grand slam final. He lost the 2008 U.S. Open final to Federer as well. But equally important, he was trying to become the first British tennis player since Fred Perry in 1936 to win a major title.
Murray needed several seconds to compose himself. “I can cry like Roger, it’s just a shame I can’t play like him.” Federer broke into tears after losing the 2009 Australian Open final to Rafael Nadal last year.
Murray showed great skill and great heart. He was well rested coming into the final but Federer was as dominant as ever. Federer’s legacy continues to grow as the greatest tennis player of all time.
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