Shanghai master Murray bags No.3 spot

 

Originally published on: 17/10/11 09:53

Andy Murray continued his scintillating run of form during the Asian swing, defeating David Ferrer to defend his Shanghai Masters crown and overtake Roger Federer in the ATP ladder for the first time in his career.

The Scot defeated Ferrer 7-5 6-4 in the final of the Masters 1000 event to secure his third straight ATP title – and fifth of the season – after winning in Bangkok and Tokyo in consecutive weeks to add to his earlier triumphs in Cincinnati and at London’s Queen’s Club.

“It’s been one of the best runs of my life,” said Murray, who has now racked up 25 wins in his past 26 matches. “I’ve played very, very well in the last few weeks. I was very nervous today because I wanted to win and defend my title but I’m very happy I came through.”

Ferrer ultimately finished a runner-up in an ATP Masters 1000 final for the third time in his career, but was rewarded for his run in Shanghai earlier in the week when he became the fifth to qualify for a place at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals in November.

“I fought a lot, but today it was impossible to beat Andy,” said Ferrer after his straight sets defeat. “He’s a very good player and person. I didn’t serve really good this match, also because Andy received very well and I had to play closer to the lines.”

“Ferrer’s one of the toughest players on the tour and one of the best people; it’s a pleasure to share the court with him,” said Murray of the Valencia native, who made the final of the season-ending showpiece when it was held in Shanghai in 2007.

As for the new world No.3, who ranked at a career-high No.2 in August 2009, Murray is aiming to hold on to his newly-acquired spot until the end of the year, a feat that could gain him a favourable seeding at the Australian Open in January.

“I wanted to finish the year at three if possible. I haven’t done that before. That still isn’t complete. I’m still going to have to win some more matches to do that,” said Murray, who will hope that his recent form could carry him on to the biggest tournament win of his career at London’s O2 Arena come November 27.

“I’m really happy with the way I’m playing and hope I can keep it up for the rest of the year,” finished the 24 year old.

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