Andy Murray beats Novak Djokovic to lift third Rogers Cup

Andy Murray got the better of Novak Djokovic for the first time in nine attempts as he lifted the Rogers Cup for the third time in his career.

The British No.1 needed five championship points and three hours to see off the Serbian 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 in an energy-sapping final.

With the two top seeds renewing their rivalry a drawn-out battle was expected and the players did not disappoint, Murray forcing a total of 19 break points on Djokovic’s serve, but the resilient Serb found reserves to hang in there time after time before eventually succumbing.

World No.1 Djokovic had been aiming to win his fourth Rogers Cup in his ninth final of the year, but Murray was in determined mood to claim his own fourth ATP Tour title of 2015.

Murray dedicated the victory to his coach, Amelie Mauresmo, the former women’s star who gave birth to a boy Saturday.

“I don’t know much detail,” said Murray, whose wife, Kim, is due to give birth to their first child in February. “I haven’t spoken to her. I’d imagine she’s quite tired. Probably me and my tennis are the last thing on her mind just now, which is totally understandable.

“Amelie this one’s for you. Thank you.”