Andy Murray celebrated his 29th birthday in style as he beat world number one Novak Djokovic to win his first ever Rome Masters title.
Murray, who is fast showing he is a force to be reckoned with on clay after also reaching the semi-finals in Monte Carlo and finishing as runner-up in Madrid last weekend, beat the Serb 6-3 6-3 in one hour and 35 minutes.
It was a first win on clay against Djokovic in five attempts for Murray – who also lost to the same opponent in last week’s Madrid Open final – while he also became the first British men’s singles winner of the event in Rome since 1931.
The world number one appeared agitated throughout and complained to umpire Damian Steiner throughout the second set that rain was making the Foro Italico surface too dangerous.
But Murray, whose deft drop shot had sealed the opening set, maintained his composure, holding off any challenge from his opponent on his own serve before breaking Djokovic in the final game to take the win.
Murray will now return to the world number two ranking ahead of the French Open at Roland Garros, which begins on May 22.
And after recording just his second win in 14 encounters with Djokovic, Murray could not have asked for a better confidence booster. "Each time I go up against him [Djokovic], I know I have to play a great match to win," said Murray.
"I've had great preparation now going into the French Open. I have played against Rafa a couple of times, Novak a couple of times. You know, not won all of the matches, but competed extremely well even in the ones I have lost.
"[I'm] going to Roland Garros with a lot of confidence. Over best of five, as well, takes a little bit more physical and mental strength.
"But I feel like I'm on the right track. So hopefully I can have a good run there."
Sportsbeat 2016