Andy Murray Hits Gold Standard as He Finally Defeats Federer in Olympics Tennis Final

Andy Murray made up for his Wimbledon disappointment as he he didn’t just beat Roger Federer, he routed him in straight sets to win the Olympic tennis final and a Gold Medal.

The score was 6 – 2, 6 – 1, 6 – 4 as Federer went down before Murray’s determination and non-stop barrage of winning shots. Federer looked increasingly agitated as he sensed that this time Murray wasn’t going to fade or lose concentration. He hit a series of unforced errors in the vital 3rd set and Murray finally closed him down with an ace.

Victory was sweet as Murray rushed straight to his girlfriend, family and team who have backed him so well over the years, through the wins and the disappointments.

Murray claimed this was the best moment of his life. He draped himself in the Union flag and was even seen to sing part of the National Anthem. One of the great developments of the Olympics for the home supporters has been the way all the nationalities, from every background, have come together under the Team GB banner.

This has been a great unifier, something cynics never thought would happen. Around 80% of expectations have been met so far and at the halfway stage Team GB are third in the medals table.

This has been pay off time for all the Lottery money that has been put into sport over the past 20 years. Competitors have had the facilities and coaching needed to win Olympic success.

After the games the aim will be to carry the momentum forward and get more of the young generation interested in sport. It will not be easy, the Coalition Government is committed to cut the sports budget but Cameron, with an eye on opinion polls may have second thoughts.

Already the discrepancy between athletes from private schools and state schools has been laid bare. With just 7% of the population enjoying private education – athletes who had the benefits of extra coaching and better facilities have won 50% of the medals.

A statistic showing on the one hand the inequality of modern Britain – on the other the untapped potential in the country.