Andy Murray’s Performance at US Open 2023: Exemplary form post hip surgery
Andy Murray Believes He is Playing His Best Tennis Since Hip Operation | US Open 2023
In a surprising turn of events at the ongoing US Open, Andy Murray has declared that he is currently showcasing his finest tennis since undergoing a career-saving hip operation. The former world number one will face off against old rival Grigor Dimitrov in the second round.
Murray, who recently turned 36, joins five other British players who are vying for a spot in round three at Flushing Meadows on Thursday. Among them are Cameron Norrie, Dan Evans, Jack Draper, Katie Boulter and Jodie Burrage.
“I’m thrilled to have reached my highest ranking (37) since I had my metal hip implanted,” remarked Murray confidently. “It’s been quite an arduous journey to get here. Although I would prefer a higher rank, this is undoubtedly the most consistently well I’ve played since 2017.”
The upcoming match between Murray and Dimitrov holds particular significance as they haven’t faced each other since 2016. While the Scottish player has emerged victorious in eight out of their eleven previous encounters, it was Dimitrov who claimed victory in their most high-profile clash during the quarter-finals of Wimbledon back in 2014.
Adding further intrigue to this contest is the fact that both coaches working with Dimitrov – Jamie Delgado from Britain and Dani Vallverdu from Venezuela – have previously worked with Murray during successful stints together.
“I’ve come up against several ex-coaches before and have only suffered defeat once,” revealed Murray nonchalantly. The three-time Grand Slam champion, who clinched his first major title in New York back in 2012, added: “On paper, it should be a significant advantage for him to have two individuals who have had prior experience working with me. However, the outcome remains to be seen.”
Murray and Dimitrov will kick off Thursday’s action on Arthur Ashe Stadium at 17:00 BST.
The British number one seed Norrie has been seeking out top-level competition as he strives to secure his first-ever Grand Slam title following a lackluster performance this year. Norrie was recently seen practicing with defending champion Carlos Alcaraz.
Should they both progress through their respective matches, Norrie could potentially face Alcaraz in the last 16. At present, Norrie is set to take on Taiwanese qualifier Hsu Yu-hsiou, currently ranked at number 237 worldwide.
“I’m constantly honing my skills by playing alongside the best players,” admitted Norrie eagerly. He continued: “Playing points with Carlos is an invigorating experience; you can’t help but feed off that energy.”
Alcaraz himself will also compete later in the day against South Africa’s Lloyd Harris on Arthur Ashe Stadium at 00:00 BST. The victor of this match will then square off against either Dan Evans or Botic van de Zandschulp from the Netherlands.
Meanwhile, Jack Draper faces an uphill battle among British male athletes as he prepares to take on Polish player Hubert Hurkacz – seeded at number 17 – after recently recovering from a shoulder injury that forced him to miss both the French Open and Wimbledon tournaments.
Despite the challenge, Draper finds motivation in the success of his fellow compatriots. The strong presence of Brits in the draw is incredibly beneficial to British tennis as a whole,” said the 21-year-old. “We push each other to reach greater heights.”
Jodie Burrage, who emerged victorious in her first-round match, has earned herself a spot on one of the show courts. She will face off against world number two Aryna Sabalenka on Louis Armstrong Stadium.
“This is an enormous match for me and possibly one of the most significant moments in my career,” expressed Burrage, whose journey thus far has been marred by various injuries.
With only two players remaining from Britain’s contingent in the women’s draw following Lily Mizayaki’s defeat at the hands of Belinda Bencic yesterday, all eyes are now on Burrage as she aims to make further strides at this prestigious tournament.