Andy Murray can win six majors, says John McEnroe

The 54-year-old American, who won seven major titles – three at Wimbledon and four at Flushing Meadows – was seen shaking Murray’s hand from the ESPN commentary box as the Scot clambered up to celebrate with his box moments after his emotional straight-sets win over world No 1 Novak Djokovic on Centre Court.

“I’d be surprised if he doesn’t win at least six majors,” former world No 1 McEnroe told BBC Sport, for whom he also works for as a popular pundit during Wimbledon fortnight.

“He’s come into his own and there’s a lot to look forward to.”

McEnroe added: “This is a big thing. This is a new face who has stepped up in a big way.

“It’s clearly important for all of tennis, but here [in Britain] it’s monumental. Every year people ask the same questions – now he never has to hear Fred Perry’s name again.

“When he pumped his fists at the end, I thought he was doing it to [former British number one] Tim Henman in the BBC commentary booth because he had some mutual respect for what Tim had done himself.

“But he said it was a little defiance towards the press. He’s shut them down and will never have to hear people again asking whether he can win it.

“Hopefully he’ll get the respect he deserves. He looks pretty darn good to me.

“He’s got a two, three, four-year period – a couple of years especially – where he’s going to be tough to beat, really tough.

“He could win the US Open to have two majors this year; no-one else would have that.”