Andy Murray described his first clay-court victory as an “honour” yesterday as he ended a 39-year wait for a British winner on the surface by taking the Open in Munich.

The 27-year-old was pushed all the way by Philipp Kohlschreiber but came through to take the win in just over three hours.

Murray was forced to wait for his maiden clay crown after rain ended hopes of the final being concluded on Sunday and home favourite Kohlschreiber made sure it was not all plain sailing for the world number three before Murray eventually recorded a 7-6 (7/4) 5-7 7-6 (7/4) win.

As he builds up to the French Open, Murray was pleased to break his duck on clay — almost 40 years since Buster Mottram took Britain’s last tour win on the dirt.

“The rain made things really tough but as a Scot I’m used to that. It’s been a hard couple of days so I am very happy to have won, especially on clay,” Murray said.