Mark Philippoussis admitted he was outplayed as Roger Federer claimed his first grand slam title with a commanding three-set win over the Australian in the Wimbledon final.

Fourth seed Federer, 21, became the first Swiss player to win a grand slam and lived up to his billing as a world No.1 in waiting as he swept past Philippoussis 7-6 (7-5) 6-2 7-6 (7-3).

"He did play extremely well. He definitely played better than me on the day," Philippoussis said.

"I just didn't play the big points properly. I didn't put the pressure on, I wasn't solid enough. That's something I have to work on and I will.

"I don't think I played as well as I would have liked to, but they're the matches you've got to find your way through and win. That's what champions are made of."

The unseeded Philippoussis had his chances to take the initiative in the first set tie-breaker but a long forehand and a fatal double fault gave Federer two set points, securing the vital advantage when the Australian sent a return from a second serve wildly long.

Federer then raced ahead with two early breaks in the second set and left Philippoussis behind with his brilliant and imaginative stroke play from all over the court and off both flanks.

Philippoussis, 26, looked leg weary after a gruelling fortnight which included two tough five setters against Andre Agassi and Alexander Popp.

His serve wasn't as effective as it had been, sending down only 14 aces to Federer's 21 and the Swiss was able to return effectively.

Philippoussis picked up his game in the third set and was more aggressive but still had to save two break points which would have given Federer a match winning 6-5 lead.

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