Andy Murray survived a dramatic match against Matteo Berrettini at the Miami Open

Andy Murray demonstrated unwavering resilience in a captivating showdown against a fatiguing Matteo Berrettini, ultimately securing a hard-fought victory and earning entry into the second round of the Miami Open. Despite a daunting first-set loss, the former world No 1 orchestrated a spectacular turnaround, claiming a 4-6 6-3 6-4 win, while his opponent, Berrettini, grappled with bouts of dizziness following his return to the ATP Tour since the US Open.

Murray’s exemplary strategic acumen and mental fortitude were unmistakable as he adeptly navigated critical junctures and capitalized on opportunities, displaying remarkable control and tactical precision to outmaneuver his opponent.

Following the exhilarating match, Murray engaged in a post-match interview with Laura Robson, where he expressed his satisfaction with the performance and highlighted the significance of pivotal moments during the encounter. He revealed, “I think in terms of the way I played and the important moments in that match, I did a good job. I was down 0-40 near the end when it was 3-2, and I also created a lot of chances to go up a double break as well and hadn’t got it, stayed tough there and played some good points.”

The former world No 1 further emphasized his effectiveness on the court, stating, “I moved well, and dictated a lot of the match, which isn’t easy against him. Once I got the balance right against him, I felt like I dictated a lot of the points. I played a smart match when I needed to. I’m very different on the tennis court, I’m not a robot, I’m a bit odd, a bit strange, but I play better when I’m like that.”

Berrettini, a former Wimbledon finalist, launched the match with a strong performance, capitalizing on Murray’s early struggles to secure the opening set. Nevertheless, as the encounter progressed, Berrettini’s physical state faltered, as evident by his episode of dizziness while trying to serve, marking a turning point in the match.

Murray’s remarkable victory, characterised by his unconventional approach and remarkable tenacity, underscores his enduring skill and astuteness on the court, cementing his status as a notable contender in the Miami Open. His triumph serves as a testament to his indomitable spirit and tactical prowess, reaffirming his stature as a revered figure in professional tennis.