Smiles more likely if title success is to be repeated by Murray

When victory over Novak Djokovic finally came in New York after five agonising sets, Murray dropped to his knees and tried to take in what he had achieved.

There was one over-riding emotion – relief.

He had lost his first four grand slam finals and the pressure to win one of the sport’s four big titles had grown and grown as the years went on.

When he added a Wimbledon title this summer, his reaction was more exuberant, but still the release of pressure was the overwhelming factor as he ended Britain’s long wait for a men’s singles champion.

The weight of history lifted from his shoulders, Murray is now free to try to win things for himself and his team.

“I think in some ways it will be more enjoyable,” he said yesterday. “Almost before every single time I stepped on the court for any match, you always felt you were having to prove yourself all the time whereas now I feel like I’ve done that.

“But I still want to try and achieve more. I still train hard to give myself an opportunity to win these tournaments. I know how hard they are to win.”

Murray does not expect to begin his campaign until tomorrow, when he takes on Frenchman Michael Llodra.

World No 1 Djokovic, who he could meet in the semi-finals, and Rafael Nadal are almost certain to be the biggest obstacles to Murray retaining his title.

“I may not win another grand slam,” added Murray. “But I’m looking forward to getting going here with a little less pressure and hopefully a bit more confidence coming in than before.”