Why Wimbledon Needs Andy Murray in the Final

These qualities allowed Nalbandian to race out to a 5-1 head-to-head lead against Federer before he reached No. 1. Federer now leads that series 10-8, but the Argentine’s three wins since 2005 represent more success against the Swiss than anyone else has enjoyed, save Nadal, Murray and Djokovic.

Furthermore, Murray has some qualities than Nalbandian did not, namely a very big first serve and a commitment to fitness. Also, Murray’s probing mind has long excelled at finding ways of making his opponent play the way they don’t want to.

None of this is to suggest that Murray deserves to be the favorite should they meet in the final. Federer is still Federer, the most spectacular tennis artist we’ve ever witnessed, and Murray has never faced him on grass.

Also, the only time they have played in a major was in last year’s U.S. Open final, which the Swiss won in straight sets.

Still, imagine a Sunday final in which the soon-to-be father seeks to set the new Grand Slam record, just nine years after Pete Sampras established the previous mark here.

Now, imagine that the only man in his way is someone who has beaten him four straight times, is seeking to end Britain’s 73-year drought at tennis’ grandest stage, and has the backing of 10,000 British on Mount Murray.

It may not be the Nadal-Federer sequel we’d hoped for, but it’s the best possibility left.

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