Battling Murray through in Madrid
Andy Murray looking to defend his title
Also In The News
|
Newcastle United are out of the relegation zone after a crucial 3-1 win over Middlesbrough at St James' Park. |  |
Tuesday, 12, May 2009 09:31
Andy Murray was forced to dig deep to clinch a 7-6 (11-9) 6-4 win over Italian Simone Bolelli in the first round of the Madrid Open.
The British number one is the defending champion at the tournament, although he won the tournament on harcourt and it has been changed to clay this year. And it looked like Murray could be in danger of facing an early exit on his least favourite service.
Bolleli played some inspired tennis in the first set and unleashed great winners from both his backhand and forehands wings. Murray held on to his serve and after failing to take break point chances at 3-3, the Scot was taken to a first set tie-break.
In a mammoth tie-break, Murray first wasted two set point chances and then his opponent wasted two. But Murray eventually took the tie-break on his fourth opportunity as Bolelli sent a forehand long.
Murray was forced to save break points on his second service game in the second set, but managed to get to 5-4. Bolelli was now under huge pressure and despite saving one match point with a big serve, he lost his service to give Murray the win.
The world number three will now face Spaniard Tommy Robredo in the next round after he beat American Mardy Fish.