Top
Andy Murray Indian Wells 2021
Andy Murray, ATP Tennis Players, British Tennis Players, Tennis News

‘I can still do better’ – Andy Murray reacts to latest victory at Indian Wells


Andy Murray battled past Spanish sensation Carlos Alcaraz at Indian Wells on Sunday, though admitted it was far from his best performance.

The British star, who is continuing his return after various injury difficulties, dispatched the 18-year-old and US Open quarter-finalist 5-7, 6-3, 6-2 in a match which lasted over three hours.

Murray showed signs of the fighting spirit which helped him to lift three Grand Slam titles earlier in his career, saving eight of the 10 break point opportunities he faced.

“It was hard conditions. It was very hot. Because of the nature of the court here, you’re going to play some long rallies, especially against a player like him,” Murray said during his press conference.

“At times I played some really good tennis. It wasn’t my best match. I can certainly still do things better. I thought I competed well today, which was probably the most pleasing part for me.”

The former world number one also sprung a surprise on his opponent and the crowd at Indian Wells by producing an underarm serve – a shot that Murray has never used before in matchplay.

The British star said he noticed Alcaraz was returning further behind the baseline, which opened the door to the unusual yet clever serve.

“He started returning from further back, so it was even harder to get free points on the serve,” Murray explained.

“I thought if he’s going to stand that far back and I’m getting no love from the court and the conditions, why not try it and see if I can bring him forward a little bit again. I wasn’t expecting to get an ace out of it.”

Next up for Murray is Alexander Zverev, who awaits in the third round after ousting the talented home favourite Jenson Brooksby 6-4 3-6 6-1.

“Zverev is a top player. He’s had a good summer post Wimbledon with the Olympics, then a great run in New York,” said Murray.

“It’s not going to be easy for me. I played some good matches against him in the past. I will need to play really well.

“He’ll certainly go in as the overwhelming favourite. But if I play a high-level match, I’ll be right in there.”


By
0

Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.