The result was a royal rout. Murray swept nine consecutive games, breaking Federer's serve four times in a row, and won 6-2, 6-1, 6-4.
The victory marked a breakthrough for the Scotsman, who has lost all four of his Grand Slam finals, three against Federer.
For Federer, the drubbing marked another Olympic disappointment. Playing in the games for the fourth time, he sought a victory to complete a career Golden Slam but still earned his first singles medal.
From the start, there was no doubting fans' loyalty. Fans waved Union Jacks throughout.
