With an election around the corner, voters concerns and fears weigh more heavily than wishes of the generals to pursue elusive victory.

BBC: The tide changes for Obama on Afghanistan

But whereas Al Gore's prospects hinged on an ultimately elusive victory in Florida, and John Kerry's on an equally elusive win in Ohio, Mr Obama in 2008 made inroads into previously Republican territory in the South, the Rockies and the Midwest, bringing him victory by a comfortable margin.

ECONOMIST: The Obama campaign

Murray has had a mixed season with a first Grand Slam victory continuing to prove elusive and he admitted that if he is to win one it will almost certainly not be on the clay of the French Open.

BBC: Andy Murray set to name coach by new year

Libyan rebel fighters opposed to the regime of Colonel Muammar al-Gadhafi moved one step closer to victory on Tuesday after having breached the Bab Al-Aziziya compound where the elusive leader has his residence and was thought to be located.

FORBES: Libyan Rebels Breach Gadhafi Compound And Raid His Residence