British tennis is currently on a roll in both WTA and ATP Tours. First, 18-year-old Emma Raducanu shocked the world and won the US Open 2021, and now, 26-year-old Cameron Norrie, who competed as the 21st seed, has lifted the Indian Wells Masters title. What’s interesting is, Norrie credited Raducanu for inspiring him. Besides, even Andy Murray shared some words of appreciation for his fellow countryman.

In the final, two unexcepted players battled for the title. However, trailing from a set down, Norrie geared up and defeated Nikoloz Basilashvili to become the first British player to win the Indian Well men’s singles title. Accordingly, he admitted that his win is as unbelievable as Emma Raducanu’s US Open victory.

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Cameron Norrie on inspiration from Emma Raducanu

Indeed, not many saw Cameron Norrie as the winner before the start of the Indian Wells tournament. Hence, he could relate his win with US Open champion Emma Raducanu.

“What she has done has been extremely impressive and she inspired me a little bit, that was crazy,” Norrie said. “I don’t know what’s more believable, her winning the US Open or me winning this — 50-50 maybe.”

Furthermore, Norrie revealed that he had been using a shoelace as a belt. Hence, he hopes to buy a decent belt with his winner’s prize money, that is, $1,209,730.

What’s more, the British professional has jumped to the 10th spot in the ATP Finals Race to Turin. Therefore, he will now be looking forward to making his way into the Top 8 qualifications spots.

Read More: Emma Raducanu to Partner With Johanna Konta’s Former Coach Following Indian Wells Early Exit

Andy Murray on Cameron Norrie’s Indian Wells success

Unsurprisingly, Murray made honest admission regarding Norrie’s success in the desert. He said, “I’d be lying if I said I called that, to be honest.”

However, the former World No.1 added that Norrie’s success is only a consequence of his hard work.

“I’ve spent a decent amount of time around him and practiced with him quite a lot, and he works extremely hard. He’s a great example for not just Brits but all tennis players,” Murray said. “If you put in the work every day, have an attitude like he has, it can take you a long way.”

Recently, even Murray himself pulled off a record-breaking battle against Frances Tiafoe in European Open. So, let’s see what 2021 has left in stock for British tennis players.

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