Andy Murray showcased his enduring skill and determination as he triumphed over Alexei Popyrin in a gripping first-round match at the Queen’s Club.
The victory, marked by a 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 scoreline, was particularly significant as it represented Murray’s 1,000th ATP match. This rare milestone is a testament to his remarkable longevity and resilience in the sport, shared by only a handful of active players.
Murray’s performance at Queen’s comes after a challenging season plagued by injuries and inconsistent results. He had not won an ATP match since injuring his ankle at the Miami Open in March, which sidelined him for over a month. His return to form on the familiar grass courts of Queen’s, where he has claimed the title five times, was a promising start to what could be his final grass-court season.
Reflecting on his physical condition, Murray acknowledged the toll of his career on his body.
“A lot of matches and a lot of wear and tear on the body. It’s not easy, but I’m pushing through it,” he remarked.
The match against Popyrin saw Murray at his strategic best, using his court craft to neutralize the Australian’s powerful serve and responding decisively after a difficult second set.
The win sets up a second-round clash with Jordan Thompson, who advanced after an upset victory over seventh seed Holger Rune. Meanwhile, top seed Carlos Alcaraz, fresh off his French Open triumph, began his grass season with a win over Francisco Cerundolo and will next face British No. 1 Jack Draper.
Murray’s journey back to competitive tennis has been fraught with setbacks. His determination to play through pain and compete at a high level underscores his love for the game. Despite physical challenges, including a significant ankle injury earlier this year and a back issue at the French Open, Murray’s spirit remains unbroken. His prowess on grass courts, coupled with effective serving and tactical acumen, was evident in his latest match.
Elsewhere at Queen’s, Dan Evans had to retire from his match against Brandon Nakashima due to a knee injury, adding to the list of early tournament casualties, including Frances Tiafoe and Thanasi Kokkinakis.
In Birmingham, Katie Boulter also faced disappointment, retiring from her match against Anhelina Kalinina due to illness.
Murray’s win at Queen’s not only highlights his resilience but also serves as a reminder of his extraordinary career as he continues to assess his future in professional tennis.
