Andy Murray has apologised to his fans in Britain after his defeat to Roger Federer in the Australian Open final. The Scot was defeated in straight sets and was clearly emotional when he made his speech at the Rod Laver Arena.

"Sorry I couldn't do it for you tonight,” the 22-year old said. "I can cry like Roger, it's just a shame I can't play like him."

Murray congratulated his opponent, who was winning his 16th Grand Slam title. The Swiss had been in incredible form and proved too good for the British number one, eventually coming out on top in  a thrilling third set tie-break to win 6-3 6-4 7-6 (13-11).

"I'd like to congratulate Roger,” Murray said. “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.

"I'd like to thank all you guys, the support I got the whole tournament was great, loved every minute of it and hopefully one year I can come back and win here."

Federer had words of support for his beaten opponent, acknowledging that Murray’s wait for a major title was continuing.

"Well done for your incredible tournament," he told Murray.

"You played fantastic and you're too good of a player not to win a grand slam, so don't worry about it."

"Winning this again, I think I played some of the best tennis of my life these past two weeks. This is a very special moment - a first grand slam as a father."