Andy Murray’s tearful speech after losing to Roger Federer in the Wimbledon final yesterday caused a huge energy surge of 700 megawatts.

National Grid reported the jump which is the equivalent of more than a quarter of a million kettles being turned on as most viewers stayed on to watch the emotional address to the crowd.

Congratulating his opponent for a “deserved” win, as well as his own coaching team, the Scot’s voice then cracked with emotion as onlookers wept with him.

Murray, the first Brit to make the competition final in 76 years said: “I’m going to try this and it’s not going to be easy…

“Everybody always talks about the pressure of playing at Wimbledon, how tough it is, but it’s not the people watching, they make it so much easier to play. The support’s been incredible, thank you so much.”

There was a similar surge in demand for power when play was suspended for the roof to be closed with more than 600 megawatts needed.

National Grid said these surges were in line with forecasts prepared for the final. A spokesman said: “It was challenging but we were prepared for all eventualities.”

The BBC said 16.9 million viewers tuned in to watch the final yesterday afternoon.