Federer ready to reel in Sampras

 

Originally published on: 26/02/10 12:00

Federer, who had lost his number one world ranking to Rafael Nadal and both his Australian Open and Wimbledon titles in 2008, ended the grand slam year on a high with a 6-2 7-5 6-2 victory in one hour and 51 minutes to equal Jimmy Connors and Sampras as five-time US Open winners and move to within one grand slam title of Sampras’ record.

“One thing’s for sure – I’m not going to stop at 13,” said Federer.

“But there’s a great bunch of guys behind and in front of me like Andy. He’s done great the last couple of weeks and I’m sure there’s much more of Andy in the future as well.”

Murray, 21, had history in sights after defeating world number one Rafael Nadal in the previous night’s semi-final, aiming to become the first British male since Fred Perry at the US national championships in 1936 to win a grand slam.

It was not to be, though, as Federer, seeded second behind Nadal, completed his 34th consecutive victory at Flushing Meadows.

Murray said: “I had a great tournament but I came up against a great opponent today. I got the better of him the last two times we played and he definitely set the record straight today.

“I’ve got a lot of improving to do if I want to win one of these tournaments. I love playing in front of this crowd. I’ve played three matches on Arthur Ashe (court), and it’s been the best time of my life.”

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