US Open 2011 semi-final: Andy Murray's woes – in pictures

It has become a familiar theme this year – Andy Murray capitulating in a grand slam semi-final against Rafael Nadal. But when the Brit curled up into the foetal position in his latest bout against the Spaniard on Saturday night it was a sign of just how frustrating such failings have become Photograph: Lucy Nicholson/Reuters

Murray was typically animated as he lost the first two sets 6-4, 6-2. Despite winning the third set 6-3, the fourth set was notable for the Scot's tantrums Photograph: Mike Segar/Reuters

There was the obligatory fist-biting … Photograph: Mehdi Taamallah/PA

… a bit of racket-gnawing, too Photograph: Matt Slocum/AP

Even the water bottle couldn't escape his rage Photograph: Emmanuel Dunand/AFP/Getty Images

As he wasted a critical break point in the fourth set and the match slipped away from him, Murray looked inconsolable Photograph: Elizabeth Pantaleo/PA

Murray's attitude did him little good, and was in stark contrast to Nadal's flawless composure Photograph: Charlie Riedel/AP

Not that Nadal had reason to fret; he was in ruthless form Photograph: Mike Segar/Reuters

Murray's shorts paid the price for his inability to rival Nadal Photograph: Justin Lane/EPA

Having ruined one pair he set to work on another
Photograph: John G Mabanglo/EPA

Murray reserved further angst for his sweatband – which evidently couldn't soak up his profuse sweat. Murray repeatedly turned to his team in the stands in a bid for inspiration Photograph: Charles Krupa/AP

Murray lost to Nadal in the Wimbledon and French Open semis this year and has lost all three grand slam finals he has reached Photograph: Eduardo Munoz/Reuters

After three and a half hours of torment, Nadal finally put his opponent out of his misery. The Scot will now turn his attentions to the Davis Cup Photograph: Eduardo Munoz/Reuters