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Andy Murray ended a seven-decade victory drought for home players, becoming the first Briton to win the Queen’s club title since 1938 with a 7-5 6-4 defeat of James Blake on Sunday.
The Scot world No.3 thrilled a crowd in west London as he broke the half-British Blake for 4-3 in the second set on his way to closing out the historic win.
“It was a good match, even if there weren’t so many rallies,” said Murray. “James is tough and since I’d only played him once, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’m very glad to win.”
The 22-year-old will now face huge pressure with Wimbledon starting a week from Monday. The last Briton to lift that honour dates ever farther back – Fred Perry in 1936.
“I played well all week and when I had chances I managed to take them,” said the winner, who claimed his fourth title of the season, one short of the five of ATP leader Rafael Nadal. “But I was nervous before the match.
“I guess the only thing now is to try and win a Grand Slam hopefully in a few weeks,” said the record-setter.
Murray lost serve for only the second time during the week at the elite Wimbledon tune-up on grass as he earned his 40th victory of the season. He claimed the trophy without dropping a set.
The last British winner at Queen’s was Bunny Austin in 1938, with seven compatriots finishing runner-up at the tournament. The most prolific was Tim Henman, who failed to pass the final barrier three times.
Blake has now lost all three of his career grass finals, including at Queen’s in 2006 against Lleyton Hewitt. The 29-year-old American stands 10-14 in career finals.
“Andy’s a great player and had a great week,” said Blake.
“Hopefully we’ll get a re-match in a few weeks.
“I feel great and I’ve gotten the best possible preparation. I’ll be ready to play Wimbledon, I feel great about my chances.”
Murray closed it out in a routine 68 minutes on the first of three match points as Blake fired a return into the net.
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