Andy Murray has revealed his delight after making it through to the second round of the US Open after a hard-fought victory over James Duckworth.
Murray’s participation at Flushing Meadows had been in doubt as he has been battling his way back from injury, but he overcame his first test when seeing off the Australian.
The 31-year-old was pushed all the way as he played his first five-set match in 14 months before eventually going through 6-7 (5-7) 6-3 7-5 6-3.
Murray, who had surgery on a long-term hip injury in January, will now play Spanish 31st seed Fernando Verdasco in the second round in New York.
“I was pumped to be back playing in a Slam again,” Murray said. “At points in the match I didn’t play amazing. I’m not expecting to play my best tennis right now. But I’m happy to get through the match.
“The positive was that actually towards the end of the match, I made some quite good moves. Like the second-to-the-last point of the match, I moved pretty quickly up to the drop volley.
“I maintained my serving speeds throughout the match as well.”
Murray, who is chasing his second US Open title in New York, has an impressive record against Verdasco – he has won 13 of their 14 previous meetings – although he is refusing to underestimate the Spaniard.
“Fernando is a great shot-maker and someone that when he’s on his game, is really tough to beat,” added Murray.
