Roger Federer admitted he "got lucky" on his way to equalling the great Bjorn Borg's record of five consecutive Wimbledon titles with a five-set victory over Rafael Nadal on Centre Court.
The Swiss was forced to save four break-points in the final set and admitted afterwards: "You get lucky sometimes. It was such a close match and I told Rafa at the net he deserved it as well.
"Each one is special no doubt and to hold the trophy is always the best thing. To play a champion like Rafael in the final, of course it means even more to me, and equalling Bjorn as well. He's a fantastic player and is going to be around for so much longer so I'm happy every one I get now before he takes them all. He's improving so much so congratulations Rafa for reaching the final.
"It's always pressure to be on Centre Court at Wimbledon. The opening match is tough coming back as the defending champion and the final day is crazy. I'm just happy I made it through and got the trophy which is even better."
Nadal, who had to battle through two five-set matches including one which took five days to finish because of the weather, said: "I congratulate Roger, who has had an amazing season and five titles in a row is fantastic. It was a tough week with the rain but it was a good test. I was playing good and finally I can play right to the final having tough matches. I played for two weeks so I'm happy with that and hopefully I will come back next year."