Andy Murray is being tipped to go all the way at the US Open as the Scot is arguably in the form of his life at the moment. In the Toronto Master he swept to victory beating Rafael Nadal and Rodger Federer showing he has the ability to compete with the best in the world and the temperament to win the big matches instead of falling under pressure.
His loss to Mardy Fish in the week at the Cincinnati Masters in the midday heat seems to be a blessing in disguise as he will now have more time to prepare for the tournament at Flushing Meadows. Murray was runner up in 2008, losing to Federer in the final however the Brit has a favourable record against the Swiss and if he gets on the right side of the draw (avoids playing both federer and nadal) he’s in with a good shout.
Murray’s problem has always been his fitness. In 2005, during the first round of the US Open he was sick on court and the following year he struggled with an ankle injury. He has been criticised for not being fit enough to play 5 set matches consistently while players like Federer seem able to maintain their game even after hours on court.
Although there are those who dislike Murray due to his past comments about the English and the fact he constantly looks miserable, it appears now is the best time to be behind him as Britain actually has a fighting chance of winning a Grand Slam. Yes, he was taught how to play in a different country…Yes, he has the charisma of a dead ant but come on you doubters, be patriotic!
The Scot prefers the hard surfaces of Flushing Meadows as they suit his game but the real test will be whether he can sustain his current form. He must be prepared to play 35 sets without succumbing to fatigue and jump the final hurdle to become the first Brit to win a Slam since Fred Perry won the same tournament in 1936.
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