Straight sets
January 31, 2010
Swiss tennis great Roger Federer can now add a fourth Australian Open and 16th Grand Slam title to his unmatched resume, after beating Britain's Andy Murray in straight sets on Sunday in Melbourne.
"I'm over the moon winning this title again," he said. "I played some of the best tennis in my life again over the last two weeks."
Federer displayed impressive consistency in his 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 victory over the Scotsman.
The third set ended in a gripping tie-breaker - 13 points to 11 - and the Swiss claimed it on his third match point.
Murray apologizes to British fans
Following the loss, a visibly emotional Murray showed how much winning his first Grand Slam would have meant.
"I had great support back home and I am sorry I couldn't do it for you tonight," the 22-year-old said as his voice cracked and he battled to hold back tears.
But after the match, Federer - who also beat Murray in straight sets in the 2008 US Open final - offered consolation to his dejected opponent.
"Andy, you played an incredible tournament. You are too good a player not to win a Grand Slam, so don't worry about it."
glb/Reuters/AFP
Editor: Andreas Illmer