Mighty Murray lifts Wimbledon gloom
Not many sports events can turn to a knight of the realm to lift the gloom but Wimbledon's rainy on Tuesday was saved by a virtuoso performance from Sir Andy Murray which had Centre Court cooing in pleasure.
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A classic battle of Britain it wasn't, as opponent Ryan Peniston failed to live up to the occasion, but Murray - who has revelled in National Treasure status since famously ending Britain's 77-year wait for a home men's singles champion in 2013 - played his part to perfection, winning 6-3 6-0 6-1.
"Obviously it is amazing to be back here on centre court," said former world No 1 and twice Wimbledon champion Murray after his first-round victory.
"I started off the match quite nervously. I wanted to play well ... and once I got the break in that first set, I played some great tennis."
Few would disagree.
Andy's angles are on point ??#Wimbledon | @andy_murray pic.twitter.com/PQQoqr7JQI
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 4, 2023
Enjoy watching @Andy_Murray back on Centre Court? ??#Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/MIlUXXjHvo
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 4, 2023
Gracefully patrolling the baseline in a fashion which made a mockery of his multiple hip surgeries, the 36-year-old Scot peppered Centre Court with winners in a two-hour masterclass which left world number 268 Peniston a mere spectator for large chunks of the contest.
"It's been a long time since I've felt physically this good coming into Wimbledon," Murray said.
"So I am hoping I am fit and ready for a good run," he added, as the Centre Court whooped and cheered.
Tennis Royalty watching on ??@andy_murray and @rogerfederer share a wholesome exchange on Centre Court#Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/X1U5XHh0U5
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 4, 2023
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