• Wimbledon

Murray admits he is still a 'long, long way' from glory

Andy Murray has beaten Rafael Nadal in both of their most recent Grand Slam meetings © Getty Images

Enlarge

Related Links

• News: Nadal's uncle backs Murray to win Grand Slam
  
• News: Murray marches past Tsonga to set up Nadal semi
  
• Profile: Roger Federer | Andy Murray | Rafael Nadal

Andy Murray has brushed aside the boost of seeing Roger Federer exiting Wimbledon, insisting he is still a 'long, long way' from winning Wimbledon.

Federer suffered a shock quarter-final defeat to Tomas Berdych on centre court, the first time the six-time Wimbledon winner has failed to make the last four of a Grand Slam for six years. Later on Wednesday, Murray succeeded where the Swiss flattered to deceive, beating Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 6-7(5) 7-6(5) 6-2 6-2.

Federer has been Murray's Grand Slam nemesis so far in the Scot's career, denying him in both the Australian and US Open finals. The fact that the world No. 2 no longer stands in his way makes little difference to Murray, who is far more focused on attempting to beat the world No. 1, Rafael Nadal, in the semi-finals.

"I don't care whether he's in or out of the tournament," Murray said. "It doesn't affect me unless I win the next round. I'm playing the number one player in the world in the next round, so it would be a bit silly for me to look past him."

Nadal beat Murray at Wimbledon two years ago, but the British No. 1 has won their two most recent Grand Slam encounters - including the Australian Open quarter-final at the start of the year. There is no doubt in Murray's mind, though, that the Spaniard remains the man to beat in the competition.

"He would definitely be the favourite for the match with his results here over the last few years," said the fourth seed. "He didn't get a chance to defend his title last year but he has played three finals in a row and is in the semis here.

"He's a very tough player on any surface, but he plays great tennis here. Psychologically I need to believe I can win. That's the most important thing.

"But I'm a long, long way from winning a Grand Slam. Six sets away, and have to beat the world No. 1 in the world just to have a chance of doing that."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.