It was a perfect start for Andy Murray at the Citi Open in Washington on Tuesday evening.
Paired up with his brother Jamie, in the doubles competition, the two battled to a 6-4, 6-7(7), 10-5 win over France’s Nicolas Mahut and Édouard Roger-Vasselin. A duo who recently reached the final of the Wimbledon Championships. The clash concluded with the Murray brothers fighting back in the final tiebreak by winning eight consecutive points to move into the second round.
“The level of tennis I thought was really good. The doubles matches are tough because they turn on a few points. I felt we were in control for the most part. We were never behind in the match until 3-2 in the final set tiebreak.” Three-time champion Murray said after.
“But we played some good points, got a few maybe fortunate shots at the end. I think we deserved it.”
Washington is the fourth tournament the 32-year-old is playing in since his second hip operation. At present the British player is focusing solely on playing doubles, but has confirmed that he is edging nearer to returning to singles competition. With the Western and Southern Open in Cincinnati a possible tournament where he could begin that comeback.
Reflecting on his current form, Murray believes he is in a better shape than that of 12 months ago. Last year at the same tournament he reached the quarter-finals before being forced to withdraw due to fatigue.
“I’m in a much better place now than I was last year.” Murray stated. “Even though I was winning singles matches, physically I just feel so much better. I have no pain. It’s not restricting me in any of the shots that I’m hitting. I’m still maybe a little bit slow. I’m hoping that’s something that comes back with time.’
“I didn’t know how much more I was going to be playing after here last year. To come back and be competing and be pain-free is brilliant.”
The first round clash wasn’t all about Murray, it was also a milestone match for his brother Jamie. Jamie, who is currently ranked eighth in the world for doubles, achieved his 400th tour-level win.
“I think it was a great match, really high-level match, two good teams. They make a lot of returns, then they’re so good from the baseline.” He said.
“Great serving team, sharp up at the net always. Had a lot of battles with these guys in the past.”
The Murray brothers will play third seeds Raven Klaasen and Michael Venus in the next round.
