ANDY MURRAY beat Argentina's Juan Martin del Potro 7-5 4-6 6-2 7-5 in a compelling and gruelling Olympic tennis final on Sunday to become the first player to successfully defend the title.

Murray deployed a precision defensive game which eventually wore down the towering Argentine's barreling forehand and powerful service game.

Team GB's flag bearer edged the first set before del Potro fought back to level the match after unleashing his massive forehand.

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Murray recovered and powered through to win the third set 6-2 and looked in real control.

Britain's Andy Murray wins

The fourth set was thrilling as both player's continued to break each other but it was the Scot who held his nerve to break del Potro when it really mattered and a seal a thrilling win in just over four hours.

Murray racked up his 18th successive singles win, a hot streak that also brought him a second Wimbledon title.

He will now head to the US Open as the in-form player on the planet as he looks to challenge great rival Novak Djokovic for the final grand slam of the year.