Andy Murray Wins Olympic Gold at Elusive Wimbledon

Andy Murray finally won a big match when he defeated Roger Federer in three sets to win the gold medal. (Clive Brunskill)

Just one month ago, Andy Murray took the first set against Roger Federer in the Wimbledon final. Murray looked primed to make history, but that wasn't his day as he lost the next three sets. Once again, Centre Court at Wimbledon failed to see to a Briton win the champion honors for the first time since 1936. It was an all too familiar feeling for Murray, who fell to 0-4 in Grand Slam finals. Many wondered whether or not he had what it takes to win the "big one."

Pressure was quickly mounted upon Murray once again as he carried the hope of the host nation winning a medal on the tennis court. The Britons were hopeful, but many were cautiously pessimistic because of his past shortcomings. The only way those shortcomings could come to an end is by beating the best in the world on the biggest of stages. The Olympics gave Murray that opportunity once again. In the semifinals, he beat world #1 Novak Djokovic to advance to the gold medal match. His opponent was set to be a familiar opponent, Federer.

Murray shocked everyone by coming out and taking a stronghold on the match. Murray's confidence grew, as Federer's game suffered. Federer's struggles included losing nine straight games and committing 31 unforced errors. Meanwhile, Murray was propelled by the home crowd to play at his best. By the time Federer looked to recover in the third set, it was too little, too late. Murray went on to win convincingly 6-2, 6-1, 6-4.

Even though Federer was clearly hampered by something, the breakthrough of Andy Murray is the story here. Long heralded as the one who couldn't get over the top, he finally pieced it all together when it mattered most. With his countrymen cheering him on, he was able to capture Olympic gold. His improved forehand may have been just one of the decisive factors. Now, Murray must look to keep this momentum and confidence going. The last Grand Slam tournament of the season is the U.S. Open. It will be interesting to see how he allows it to affect him.