Andy Murray became the first British man to win a tennis Grand Slam in 76 years after being crowned champion at the US Open early today.

Murray made history after out-slugging Novak Djokovic in a thrilling five-set match at Flushing Meadows in New York.

The 25-year-old Scot won his first grand slam at his fifth attempt - the same as his coach, Ivan Lendl.

Murray's win makes him the first man to win Olympic singles gold and the US Open in the same year and his victory will help keep the nation's Olympic feelgood factor alive.

After winning the first two sets of the match in very windy conditions, it looked like another chance was slipping through the Scot's fingers when the 2011 champion fought back to level at two sets all.

But Murray powered his way to three games to love up, and at 5-2 up and with three championship points in Murray's favour, Djokovic hit a forehand over the baseline to give British tennis fans the win they had craved for so many years.

As the match ended Murray dropped to his haunches and held his head in his hands as the enormity of his achievement began to dawn on him.

And after Djokovic gave his gracious congratulations, Murray finally accepted his first Grand Slam trophy, kissing the US Open silverware and lifting it to the sky.

Speaking after the match, Murray said: "They were incredibly tricky conditions.

"After the third and fourth sets it was tough mentally - Novak is so strong, he fights until the end of every match and I don't know how I managed to come through in the end.

"That was almost a smile (from Ivan Lendl). He's one of greatest players ever to play, here he made eight consecutive finals.

"Having him here supporting me has helped in the tough moments, but not only him, everyone else too. They've been there since the start. Thanks very much."

Djokovic, the Australian Open champion, hailed Murray after lifting his maiden grand slam.

The world number two was favourite to add to his collection of five major triumphs, but admitted he was second best this time.

"It wasn't to be but I want to congratulate Andy for his first grand slam. He absolutely deserves it," Djokovic said.

"His team, this is your success as well. I would like to thank my team, family, friends for supporting me. I tried my best. I gave it my all and it was another tremendous match to be a part of. It was definitely enjoyable."