British veteran Andy Murray, a five-time finalist, suffered an early exit from the Australian Open on Monday, as he was outplayed by Argentine Tomas Martin Etcheverry within the first spherical.
The 36-year-old, who has prompt he could also be taking part in his remaining season, put up stiff resistance in a 61-minute first set, however the thirtieth seed slowly floor him right down to win 6-4, 6-2, 6-2.
“Very tough for me playing with a legend like Andy,” stated Etcheverry, 12 years youthful than his opponent.
“He is one of my idols, but today I played incredible. I just tried to play my game and focus on my points.”
Murray’s defeat disadvantaged followers of a possible third-round conflict with defending champion Novak Djokovic.
To have an opportunity of dealing with the highest seed, Etcheverry, who reached the French Open quarter-finals final yr, should first get previous one other veteran, Frenchman Gael Monfils.
Last tour?
Murray had a irritating finish to 2023, profitable only one match in his final 4 tournaments, and stated in Brisbane this month he’ll carry down the curtain on his profession if the subsequent 12 months comply with the identical sample.
The British participant, who gained Wimbledon in 2013 and 2016 and in addition took the U.S. Open title in 2012, is a part of a golden technology coming towards the top of trophy-laden careers.
Roger Federer retired in 2022 and Rafael Nadal had an injury-blighted 2023 and is absent from the Australian Open with a muscle tear.
At 36, Djokovic hopes so as to add to his document haul of 24 Grand Slam titles earlier than hanging up his racquet.
Source: www.dailysabah.com