Novak Djokovic praised Andy Murray after the Scot ended Britain's 77-year wait for a Wimbledon men's singles winner.
Partisan crowd
The 15,000-strong partisan crowd no doubt aided Murray, with Djokovic describing that atmosphere as "incredible for him - for me, not so much".
There was also the issue of fatigue. Djokovic took to the court less than 48 hours after his mammoth semi-final with Juan Martin del Potro. At four hours and 44 minutes, that was the longest last-four clash in Wimbledon history.
"It took a lot out of me," the Serbian said. "I cannot look for excuses in the match two days ago.
"Yes, it went almost five hours, five sets. But I've been in these situations before. I felt okay."
While keen to look ahead, Djokovic would not be drawn on the upcoming American hard court season, saying now is the time for rest.
"It was the final of Wimbledon, so I cannot be too disappointed with my overall performance in the whole tournament," the top seed said.
"It was a great tournament for me. I could have done better today, but that's sport - you cannot win all the matches. I'm going to try to take some time off, because that's exactly what I need now."
As for Murray, somebody Djokovic has known since the age of 11, what has changed?
"Well, he's got better evidently," Djokovic added. "He has won the US Open, gold medal, and now Wimbledon. That shows enough.
"I think there weren't many changes concerning his physical or maybe tactical position, but it was mostly mental. I guess the understanding of what he needs to do to win big matches.
"I guess Ivan Lendl helped him with his own experience. They're a good team."
