Murray is on the crest of a wave

 

Originally published on: 26/02/10 15:57

Once Andy Murray had finished toying with yet another bemused opponent at the 2009 Sony Ericsson Open it was time to cool off.

The Scot wrapped up one heck of a hard court swing by winning the Miami title with a straight sets victory over Novak Djokovic on Sunday (to add to his runner-up finish in Indian Wells) and there was still time to hit the beach.

Check out photos from the final
Read our Miami musings blog

While larking around in the surf with Team Murray (coach Miles Maclagan, fitness trainer Jez Green and physio Andy Ireland) it gave the world No.4 time to reflect on another fantastic month on tour.

Key to that success, said Murray, has been his improved fitness and, rather appropriately, it was in Florida where he fine-tuned that element during a demanding off season, hard work that is now paying off.

It gives you more confidence going into the matches knowing you’re in good shape, Murray said.

I think just mentally it makes a difference. Even if you’re struggling, you know your opponent is going to be feeling the same as well, whereas before sometimes you could get tired and look over at the other side and the opponent seems fine.

Djokovic confirmed it was an area that has made a big difference to Murrays all-round package as a world class tennis player. I think physically he’s moving much better all over the court, the Serb offered. The balls he wasn’t getting before he is now.

The Sony Ericsson Open is Murrays third Masters 1000 title (after victories in Cincinatti and Madrid last year) and his third singles trophy of 2009, an achievement that the Briton says will give him added belief at the majors.

I think any time you win a tournament, obviously it gives you confidence. The Masters 1000s have always been after the Slams, they’re tough tournaments to win. Like all of your wins, it contributes to your confidence going into the Slams.

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