Madrid ‘different from the rest’ claims Andy Murray
Two-time winner of the Madrid Open andy Murray claims that tennis in Madrid ”is part of their culture”, with the ”fantastic” La Caja Magica allowing you to play in front of fans ”passionate about you.”
Speaking ahead of the Madrid Open’s 20th anniversary next month, Murray reflected on his past experiences and performances over the years in Madrid, discussing his historic battles against the ‘Big Three’.
When talking through of his favorite moments in the tournament, he mentioned his emphatic display in the 2015 final against Nadal when he won 6-3, 6-2 to claim his second Madrid Open trophy and his first on clay.
”I’ve played a lot of matches there and I’m lucky to have won, so it’s difficult… But if I have to pick one I’d say when I beat Nadal in the 2015 final. He’s the best player in clay court history and being able to beat him 6-3 and 6-2 in a final in Spain was fantastic.”
Interestingly, the following year in 2016, Murray became the first man ever to beat Rafael Nadal at the same clay court tournament in back-to-back years.
He went on to discuss the tennis fans in Madrid and how they have such a big impact on the tournament’s atmosphere especially in the Caja Magica,
”I would also say Spain’s relationship with tennis. It is part of their culture. They like it, they know tennis… It’s fantastic to play there. They love the sport, they cheer for you and they are very passionate. Plus, they know the sport. You live an incredible atmosphere.”
”It is different from the rest of the tennis stadiums in the world. It is fantastic, because it allows you to play in conditions that are not the best, and a fan joins you who supports you. They are close to the court and they are passionate about you.”
Andy Murray is to miss this year’s tournament in Madrid as he takes an extended training block with ‘new’ coach Ivan Lendl to prepare for the grass court season.
The 20th edition of the Madrid Open is set to kick off on the 1st May until the 8th May 2022, with current World number three Alexander Zverev the reigning champion.
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