Andy Murray has broken into the world's top 200 after claiming his first Challenger tour title with a 6-4 6-3 win over Rajeev Ram in Santa Cruz. The 18-year-old Scot moved up 41 places to world number 164 after becoming the youngest winner in the Californian event's 19-year history.
Murray, who was a wildcard entry, did not drop a set in the whole tournament.
He will play on the main ATP Tour this week after being given a wildcard for the RCA Championships in Indianapolis.
Murray's victory, which earned him �6,150, was described as "fantastic news for him and for British tennis" by BBC Radio Five Live tennis correspondent Jonathan Overend.
"I think you could say that this is even more significant than his wins at Wimbledon because a common failing of British players in the past has been maintaining the form they showed at Wimbledon away from the spotlight," said Overend.
"Only a year or so ago, he was down in the 500s so his move up through the world's ranks has been quite momentous over the past year or so."
Murray clinched the Challenger title with a backhand down the line but despite the straight-sets scoreline, said the match had been tough.
"I had to work hard to make the right shot. He was getting to passing shots no-one else was," he said.
Ram served at 4-5 in the first set and had two chances to pull level at 5-5, but Murray's service returns proved particularly effective.
"Andy has been playing very well and has been on a bit of a run this summer," said American Ram.
"I want to congratulate him. He is tough to beat when he is returning and making passing shots so well."
MMIX
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