The Sport Matrix: Monday 08 July 2013

Murray in disbelief after claiming the Wimbledon crown

Andy Murray spoke of his delight after winning his first Wimbledon title yesterday. The Scot defeated Novak Djokovic, right, 6-4, 7-5, 6-4 to spark scenes of raucous celebration

on Centre Court.

His victory ended Britain’s 77-year wait for a men’s singles champion. “Winning Wimbledon? I still can’t believe it,” said Murray. “I can’t get my head around that. I can’t believe it.”

Djokovic saved three match points when Murray served for the final set before the Scot converted his fourth opportunity. Murray described the last thrilling game as “mentally the toughest I will ever play in my career”.

Djokovic, the world No 1, admitted that Murray had been the better player in crucial moments during the final.

“I didn’t play at the top of my ability,” said the Serb. “I wasn’t patient enough in the moments when I should have been and my serve wasn’t as good as it has been in the whole tournament but that is life. You have to move on. I’ll be fine tomorrow.”

Gatland open to touring in 2017

Warren Gatland, who masterminded the Lions’ first victorious tour since 1997, is open to the prospect of coaching the team in New Zealand in 2017. Gatland said: “If the opportunity came my way again it’s something I might look at.”

Froome survives fraught day for Sky

Team Sky’s Chris Froome retained the yellow jersey at the Tour de France but had “one of the hardest days of my life on the bike” after team-mate Richie Porte went out of overall contention and Vasil Kiryienka was eliminated completely.

Harmison: KP key for Ashes success

Steve Harmison believes Kevin Pietersen will play a key role in helping England win the Ashes. “He will write another chapter in the Kevin Pietersen book,” Harmison said ahead of Wednesday’s first Test. “He will bat well to win the series.”

McDowell savours French Open win

Graeme McDowell secured his third victory of the year with a final round of 67 to finish four ahead of South Africa’s Richard Sterne at yesterday’s French Open. “Those three wins have been fantastic,” said McDowell.