Andy Murray Wins Historic Wimbledon Title

Andy Murray has become the first Briton in 77 years to win the men's singles title at Wimbledon, with a straight-sets victory over the world number one.

With the hopes of the nation resting on his shoulders, the Scotsman beat Novak Djokovic 6-4, 7-5, 6-4 on Centre Court in a battle lasting three hours and 10 minutes.

Murray had squandered three match points before winning the championship when the Serbian netted a backhand, sparking wild celebrations among the 15,000 people in the crowd.

The 26-year-old player, who held his trophy aloft and kissed it, said: "That was one of the toughest moments, today was unbelievably tough match.

Andy Murray wins Wimbledon final

Murray climbed into the players' box after his win

"I don't know how I came through the final three points, I'm so glad to do it.

"I have played Novak many times and when everyone finishes playing, he will go down as one of the fighters.

"He did the same today and that is what made it tough.

"I understand how much everyone wanted to see British winner at Wimbledon and I hope everyone enjoyed it."

World number two Murray broke down in tears as his triumph sank in and climbed into the players' box to hug his girlfriend Kim Sears, coach Ivan Lendl and the rest of his support team.

But he almost forgot his mother Judy, who was sitting just behind the box, before returning to embrace her too.

"I did forget Mum, but then I did remember," he added.

Andy Murray of Britain reacts after defeating Novak Djokovic of Serbia in their men's singles final tennis match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships, in London

Murray dropped to his knees after the victory

"My team have stuck by me through some tough moments. This one is for Ivan (Lendl, his coach) as well, I know he did everything to try to win this one when he was playing. He's fantastic, he's been patient and I thank him."

The win makes Murray the first Briton to take the Wimbledon men's singles title since Fred Perry in 1936.

Murray won his first grand slam at the US Open last year and was desperate to claim the SW19 title after losing to Roger Federer in an emotional final last year.

Murray expressed his delight on Twitter just an hour-and-a-half after his win: "Can't believe what's just happened!!!!!!!"

Thousands of people descended on the famous All-England club, including Prime Minister David Cameron, Scotland First Minister Alex Salmond, Victoria Beckham and Wayne Rooney, while millions tuned in to watch the action on television.

Andy Murray of Britain embraces Novak Djokovic of Serbia after defeating him in their men's singles final tennis match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships, in London

Djokovic has won six grand slams, but today was not his day

On Murray Mount, fans held union flags and Scottish Saltires as they squeezed on to the steep bank to watch the tense tie.

Mr Cameron led tributes to Murray, tweeting: "It was a privilege to watch @andy_murray making history at #Wimbledon, and making Britain proud."

Djokovic was gracious in defeat.

"Congratulations to Andy you absolutely deserved it, you played incredibly," the six-times grand slam champion said.

"I know what it means to you guys in the whole country so well done. It is a great achievement. I gave it my all and it was an honour to be in this match, in this final."