In the first match of the final, 15-year-old Robson produced one of the shocks of the tournament by stunning world number 26 Martinez Sanchez 6-1 7-6 (8-6) to win the singles.

But world number four Murray could not capitalise on his partners’ fantastic win as he was beaten 6-1 4-6 3-6 by Robredo in his first singles loss of the tournament as Spain levelled the tie at 1-1.

Then, in the deciding mixed doubles, Murray and Robson let slip three set points in the opening set.

Spain then upped a gear and went on to eventually triumphed 7-6 (8-6) 7-5.

Following the mixed doubles, Murray took sole blame for the defeat and claim he had a fantastic partner in Robson.

Murray said: “I’d like to thank my partner for playing with me.

“I kind of let her down a bit so I feel bad about that.”

But despite the defeat, Murray and Robson took Britain to their first ever Hopman Cup final and following their successful run, it is increasingly likely that the pair will link up again ahead the mixed doubles tournament at the London 2012 Olympics.

However, the day belonged to Spain and the win is third Hopman Cup success in the 22-year history of the competition victories in 1990 and 2002.

Spain is now equal with the Slovak Republic as the second most successful Cup nation behind the USA who has won it on five occasions.

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