Former British No.1 says Andy Murray is on track despite defeat against Alexander Zverev
Andy Murray was left to lament missed chances as he went down to a 6-4, 7-6 defeat against Alexander Zverev at the BNP Paribas Open, but there were positive signs as he crashed out of the BNP Paribas Open.
World No.4 Zverev has been in sensational form in recent months but he was pushed all the way by Murray, who had the first break in both sets.
While the Scot struggled to disguise his frustration as he offered his congratulations to Zverev after a tense and high-quality battle, he may reflect that his performance confirmed he can still compete with the world’s best.
World No.4 Zverev has already confirmed his place in the ATP Finals in Turin next month, but he was pushed all the way by Murray and his display impressed former British No.1 Greg Rusedski.
“It was such a high level,” said Zverev. “The way Andy attacked the ball in the second set was incredible and I’m just pleased to get through.”
It was during an exclusive interview with Tennis365 earlier this year that Rusedski stated his belief that Murray would not challenge the game’s top players again, but that view is now shifting.
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“This is by far the best match he has played since his comeback. His movement has been exceptional, he has managed to change his tactics and his focus and intensity have been very, very good,” Rusedski told Amazon Prime Sport.
“People were talking about him getting back into the top 20 again and winning tournaments, but I didn’t really believe. Now I’m turning into a believer.
“It felt like we were going back in time to 2016 with the way Murray is hustling around the court. His movement has been incredible.
“He did a lot of good things in this match and there is no doubt that he’s on the right trajectory, but there is only one thing Murray wants and that is victories.
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