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Andy Murray celebrates after winning a match point against Alexandre Muller (France) in the first round of the Qatar Open.
CNN
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Andy Murray let out his trademark roar on Tuesday after one of the most difficult periods of his career.
The three-time Grand Slam champion lost all of his previous six matches dating back to October 2023, but defeated Alexandre Muller 6-1, 7-6 (7-5) in the first round of the Qatar Open. He defeated it and won.
After winning on match point, the Scot clenched his fists and turned to his friends and family in an emotional celebration.
“Obviously, the last few months have been very tough for me on the court. Obviously I haven't won a lot of games, I've lost a lot of close games, and it's been tough at the end. So… Of course I'm happy, 'Get over it,''' Murray said in an on-court interview, throwing his arms high as he remembered this was his first win of 2024.
“I’m proud that we managed to get through the game and get another win. […] I hope this is the beginning of a better development. ”
The 36-year-old has battled persistent and serious injuries in recent years, including undergoing two hip surgeries in 2019.
He's currently playing with metal hips, but truth be told, he's struggled to consistently compete at the highest level for some time.
After losing at the Australian Open in January, Murray admitted this could be his last season on tour.
“I talked to the team about it. I talked about it a lot with my family. It's not like it wasn't on my mind,” he said at the time.
Although he hasn't been able to reach his undisputed best in a while, the fact that Murray is still playing on tour despite his injury is an accomplishment in itself.
He showed his trademark grit and determination in Tuesday's match against Muller, digging deep to survive a decisive tiebreak.
Murray also recovered from an apparent injury in the first set, with the former world number one needing knee treatment after the race where he led 3-0.
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Having looked overshadowed recently, Murray's performance in Qatar was a step in the right direction and proved the Scot is not ready to throw in the towel just yet.
His fiery attitude has been consistent throughout his career and was evident on social media a few weeks ago.
Murray stood by an article in January that questioned why the Scottish player continued to play professional tennis.
“Do you want to tarnish my heritage? Please,” he said. retorted.
“I'm in a really bad place right now. I'll give it to you. In my situation right now, most people would quit and give up. But unlike most people, I'm The mind works differently.
“I will not quit. I will continue to fight and continue to strive to produce the performance that I know I am capable of.”
With his first win of 2024, Murray is looking forward to his second-round match against 18-year-old Czech Jakub Mencik on Wednesday.
His days competing for Grand Slam titles may be over, but Murray still seems to have a lot to offer the sport.
