How Historic Davis Cup Win Will Impact Andy Murray in 2016

In guiding Great Britain to its first Davis Cup title in 79 years, Andy Murray earned one of the seminal triumphs of his career.

His rivals better watch out because Murray’s now brimming with swagger heading into 2016.

Since winning Wimbledon in 2013 and erasing another equally lengthy drought in British men's tennis, his fortunes haven’t been quite so rosy. Back surgery at the end of that season forced him to skip several tournaments, and he spent much of 2014 desperately trying to put together momentum. Struggles ensued as it took him the better part of a year to truly regain his rhythm.

Things definitely clicked for Murray in 2015, as he nabbed four titles to go along with a 63-14 record in ATP singles. But still, there was something missing. Impressive victories over Rafael Nadal in Madrid and Novak Djokovic in Montreal earned him hardware, yet neither could be called a signature win.

Well, he finally found one of those by lifting Great Britain past Belgium in the Davis Cup final.

Murray went the extra mile to represent his nation in 2015. He could’ve opted to sit out the Davis Cup altogether and focus on individual goals. Instead, he saw an opportunity to do something of greater importance and help out his compatriots.

Handout/Getty Images

Participating in singles and doubles, Murray compiled a pristine 11-0 record throughout the yearlong competition. Against the United States, top-seeded France, Australia and Belgium, he flawlessly went about his business and lifted the team over the top in each matchup.

As Great Britain advanced in the tournament, it was clear just how much bringing a title home meant to Murray. He even threatened to skip the World Tour Finals entirely to allow himself extra clay-court preparation for the Davis Cup final. Ultimately, he participated in that event, but his heart laid elsewhere.

That singular focus paid off when Murray’s performance against Belgium gave his team the three wins it needed to clinch the crown. Because of those heroics, he’s been lauded with praise and even calls for knighthood. Carrying Great Britain on his back in raucous atmospheres, he exhibited poise and grit, two traits that have his confidence soaring.

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Great Britain captain Leon Smith on @andy_murray #DavisCupChampions pic.twitter.com/8tk793MaHF

— Davis Cup (@DavisCup) November 29, 2015"

If recent Davis Cup victories by Djokovic and Roger Federer are any indication, Murray could be in line for a boost this upcoming season.

When Djokovic led Serbia to the title in 2010, it marked a transformative moment for him, one that spurred him on to a legendary 43-match win streak and his emergence as the sport’s prime force. Simply put, he's been a far different player since lifting his country to its first title.

Perhaps it's the camaraderie or the idea of playing for a greater good, but something changed Djokovic after that achievement. Boosted emotionally and psychologically on the court the following year, he hasn't let up yet.  

Buoyed by his own Davis Cup title last year, Federer parlayed it into a strong 2015. Like Djokovic, Federer's victory gave his country (Switzerland) its first Davis Cup trophy. That special moment proved a springboard, and he appeared a revitalized player throughout this past season, reaching two Grand Slam finals and taking home six titles.

There's more to Djokovic and Federer's post-Davis Cup success than just coincidence. Because of the timing of their wins, they were able to enter their offseason training with plenty of confidence and some extra pep in their step. Their spirits lifted, and they suddenly approached the game with newfound optimism.

Murray is likely enjoying similar emotions right now.

Evident in an interview with BBC Sport's Piers Newbery, the Davis Cup title proved extremely fulfilling for Murray:

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It's an amazing feeling. I imagine it will take a few days before it really sinks in. 

I've been pretty upset having lost matches before but I'd say that's probably the most emotional I've been after a win. 

It's incredible that we managed to win this competition. I didn't know that would ever be possible. It's great.

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As the new season draws near, Murray will be able to prepare with the mindset of a champion. All the hard work he put into representing Great Britain paid off, and that has to be such a satisfying feeling for him. The fact that he clinched year-end No. 2 for the first time because of the Davis Cup is icing on the cake and a noteworthy achievement in its own right.

For a guy who hasn't won a major in over two years, Murray received the ultimate spark by representing his nation. Maybe winning the Davis Cup will give him that extra push he needs to end his drought. Soon after taking home gold for his nation at the 2012 Olympic Games, Murray won the first Grand Slam title of his career at the U.S. Open, so there is precedent for him. 

Expect Murray to attack 2016 with renewed vigor and challenge Djokovic's monarchy.

All statistics are courtesy of ATPWorldTour.com unless otherwise noted.

Joe Kennard is a featured columnist for Bleacher Report.

Follow @JoeKennard