Surbiton Trophy: On Sunday, Andy Murray won the Surbiton Trophy, his first grass-court title since winning Wimbledon in 2016. He won in straight sets over Jurij Rodionov.
Murray’s strong success at the event continued as he defeated Austrian Rodionov 6-3 6-2 to win a seeded berth at Wimbledon next month, with the 36-year-old now aiming for a third title at his home Grand Slam.
After defeating Australia’s Jordan Thompson in the semi-finals on Saturday, Murray displayed a strong shot collection that destroyed Rodionov in a little over an hour.
The two battled for the lead in a tough opening set on centre court despite the scorching conditions in Surbiton.
A happy @andy_murray household tonight 🏆😍 pic.twitter.com/VdPWWxSImE
— LTA (@the_LTA) June 11, 2023
Murray’s serve was a key weapon on the day, as he delivered big aces early on to punish Rodionov, who trailed 5-3 as his opponent attempted to grab a one-set lead.
Murray finished the opening set by showing off his greatest shot selection, which made his opponent to scurry over the ground and pay an exorbitant price in scorching temperatures.
The former world number one, who was cheered on by a raucous Surbiton crowd, proceeded to punish the Austrian with superb forehands that caused errors as he tightened his grip on the tie.
Murray lead the second set 3-1, but Rodionov’s determination showed as Murray began to grunt in frustration as the visitor sought a way back into the final.
However, the No. 2 seed proceeded to assault Rodionov with a succession of excellent serves shortly before a torrential rain halted play, providing both players with much-needed relief after temperatures hit 29 degrees.
Only one @andy_murray 👊 pic.twitter.com/e2btXkSQRn
— LTA (@the_LTA) June 11, 2023
When play resumed nearly three hours later, Murray quickly reasserted himself against the unseeded Rodionov, winning the fourth game and bringing himself within striking distance of the Cup.
The rain did not dampen the spirits of the Surbiton audience, and their enthusiasm grew as they observed Murray in excellent form on grass just weeks before Wimbledon.
Murray delivered more punishing serves, emphasising the gap between himself and Rodionov as the Scot earned a well-deserved victory.
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