Video: Marin Cilic breaks down in tears during Wimbledon final v Roger Federer

ROGER Federer saluted Wimbledon “hero” Marin Cilic after the injury-hit Croatian was reduced to tears during an emotional final.

Croatia's Marin Cilic speaks to a trainer during a break in play.

A PAINFUL and cruelly-timed blister was behind Marin Cilic’s tears as he slipped to a straight sets defeat to Roger Federer in the final.

Hobbled by a foot problem suffered in the first set of Federer’s 6-3 6-1 6-4 victory, Cilic wept inconsolably on Centre Court midway through the second set after calling for medical attention.

The former US Open champion gamely played through the pain for the rest of a one-sided final before wiping away more tears during the trophy presentation.

Cilic’s dramatic breakdown took many by surprise but the Croatian later revealed he had come into Sunday’s final battling a painful injury.

“I got a bad blister in the semi-final against Sam Querrey,” Cilic said.

“The (physios) I want to thank them, they were almost constantly with me and they did as much as they could but unfortunately I still felt that pain and every time I had to do a reaction, fast change of movement I was unable to do that.

“Obviously it was very tough emotionally because I know how much I went through the last few months, with preparation and everything.

“It was also tough because of my own team, they did so much for me and I just felt it was really bad luck.

“I really wanted to give my best and to try as much as I could.”

Federer saluted Cilic as a “hero” in his victory speech.

Cheered by the capacity crowd, including Hollywood actors Bradley Cooper and Hugh Grant, Cilic was given a glowing tribute by eight-time champion Federer.

“It’s cruel sometimes. He fought well. He’s a hero, congrats on a wonderful tournament Marin,” Federer said.

“You should be really proud, it’s such a special occasion to play in a final. I hope we can play some better ones down the road. Well done.”

Originally published as Video: Marin Cilic breaks down in tears during Wimbledon final v Roger Federer