By Saj Chowdhury

Murray (left) was one of only two players to beat Federer (right) in 2006

Tennis legend Bjorn Borg believes Andy Murray could be Roger Federer's closest challenger next season.

The five-times Wimbledon champion has also tipped 19-year-old Murray to follow Federer as world number one.

Borg, who picked up a BBC Sports Personality Lifetime Achievement award, said: "It will be interesting to follow Murray after he beat Federer this year.

"Murray has done brilliantly. He has the motivation so I think he can get to the top and become world number one."

Sports Personality: Borg wins Lifetime award

Murray pulled off the biggest win of his career in August when he beat Swiss superstar Federer 7-5 6-4 in the Cincinnati Masters.

But Borg insists it may be a while before Federer relinquishes his position at the head of the men's game.

A lot of young players will take inspiration from what Murray has achieved Bjorn Borg

The 50-year-old Swede said: "As long as Roger is motivated then I think it might be a few years before he is dethroned.

"Federer is playing unbelievable tennis and appears to have no weaknesses."

But Borg said he was hopeful that Murray's continuing success would spur on other British hopefuls to do well.

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"It's very important Britain has Murray. I think of lot of young players will take inspiration from what he has achieved. Britain will produce many more Andy Murrays," he said.

The six-times French Open champion also hinted that he could be willing to help the Lawn Tennis Association in their aim to produce future stars.

"I don't know what I would do if the LTA rang, because at the moment I'm helping kids with their tennis in Sweden," he added.

"But who knows? If someone is going to help, then they would have to put in a lot of time and dedication."

Borg also said it would be good for British tennis if Tim Henman came out of Davis Cup retirement.

"I spoke to John Lloyd (GB Davis Cup captain) and he's hoping Tim returns," he said. "If both Henman and Murray play, then it would be a tough team."