by Cheryl Shrum
From the moment Britain made its way into the finals of Davis Cup, much has been written about Andy Murray carrying the team on his shoulders and after three days of spectacular tennis and a herculean effort against a gritty and gutsy Belgium team, Murray did just that.
Faced with a chance to clinch the tie for his country, Murray didn’t flinch. He defeated David Goffin 6-3, 7-5, 6-3 in the first of reverse singles Sunday, to secure a 3-1 victory in the final to give Great Britain its first Davis Cup title since 1936.
When it was over, Murray dropped to the ground in tears. His teammates quick to join him. It was absolute pandemonium in Flanders Expo Arena with red, white and blue as far as you could see.
Ever the sportsman, Murray quickly jumped up and ran over to the Belgium’s bench, shaking hands with Goffin and the Belgium team before running back to join the celebrations.
“I can’t believe we did it,” said an astonished Murray afterwards. “I play some of my best tennis when I’m playing for my country. I never thought we would have the opportunity to do this and I can’t believe we have done it. Everyone who has played has played an unbelievably high level,”
In his quest to lead Great Britain to Davis Cup victory, Murray finished the year unbeaten in 11 Davis Cup rubbers. This was done vs the tough trio of US, France, Australia and now Belgium. A huge accomplishment.
He also becomes only the third player to win Wimbledon, Olympic singles gold and the Davis Cup in the Open era after Rafael Nadal and Andre Agassi.
With the spotlight clearly on him, as it should be, Murray made it clear that Great Britain’s Davis Cup squad was not a one-man team and was quick to give credit to his teammates, coach and support group.
“To win the biggest team competition in tennis, having beat the other three Grand Slam nations, I think it would be a huge victory for everyone in the team,” Murray said. “It would be well-deserved, as well. It’s taken a lot of time and hard work from many of the players, many of the staff, coaches, physios, everyone. When you win a Slam or a big competition, it’s years in the works. But this is a bit different. The last five years … it’s been a progression from a pretty low place in world tennis to playing for the biggest team competition.”
What’s up next for the World No. 2 after this crowning achievement?
”The Australian Open is next. I have lost in the final four times. I need to learn a few things about how I have handled this weekend. I will try to do that in Australia,” Murray replied.
But for now, Murray will take some time and savor this victory.
Topics: Andy Murray, Belgium, Cheryl Shrum, David Goffin, Davis Cup Finals, Great Britain, Men's tennis, Tennis News
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