Andy Murray and Lewis Hamilton victories see sport ease British heartache

Domestic success in 2016 lifts the gloom amid the changing and uncertain political landscape.

South Africa's victory in the 1995 Rugby World Cup proved to be a watershed moment in the nation's history, not just in a sporting context but in a cultural and political one as well. It inspired new hope that a country which had been divided by apartheid could unite behind one cause, with sport the main driver.

Great Britain's political instability caused by the decision to exit the European Union, forcing the resignation of the Prime Minister David Cameron and the plummeting in value of the pound, can hardly be compared to the culture of institutionalised racism in the rainbow nation. But the way sport can assist in easing political tensions are familiar.

Both Andy Murray and Lewis Hamilton conquered British institutions to ensure that at least for a few hours the country could rejoice and forget about recent political pain. The events at Wimbledon and Silverstone turned the summer of discontent into a belated celebration of national identity.

Alongside Queens Elizabeth II, a cup of tea and the mud of Glastonbury Festival, the SW19 fortnight is a British phenomenon known the world over. Viewing figures of Murray's straight sets win over Milos Raonic peaked at 13.3m, with thousands others assembling at Centre Court, Murray Mound or at dozens of public screenings, including at City Halls