Andy Murray was left in tears after Roger Federer claimed his record-equalling seventh Wimbledon championship.
The Scot was making his first appearance in the final of the tournament but was out-classed by Federer, who took home his 17th Grand Slam 4-6 7-5 6-3 6-4.
It was Murray's fourth Grand Slam final, after failing to take a single set in any of his previous attempts, twice at the Australian Open and once in the US Open.
The world number four took the initiative and broke Federer in the very first game. The third seed broke back but Murray was not denied as he took the set and the lead.
Federer clicked into gear in the second set and, with Murray not taking some of the chance presented to him, he evened up the contest.
A heavy downpour forced the players off for a rain break and it was decided to close the roof. That change of atmosphere suited Federer's game better and he rarely looked back thereafter.
Murray struggled against the powerful Federer forehand while struggling to get his serve going effectively.
It was fitting that a massive Federer forehand to the baseline would force Murray to play too wide to take the championship point. Federer equals Pete Sampras and has increased his claim to being the greatest grass court player of all time.
Murray was left with just tears, his own and those in the Centre Court stands as he gave an emotional speech. "I'm getting closer," he said, but there was a world of difference between the Dunblane boy and the tennis royalty from Switzerland.
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