A leap to a career high in the ATP rankings looms for Andy Murray after a topsy-turvy encounter against Carlos Moya this afternoon that saw the Scot come out on top with a 2-6 6-3 6-1 victory.

The British number one is now one win away from being the new number six in the world - a fantastic achievement for one so young.

However, for half of his match against Moya, he looked lacklustre and lethargic - with the veteran taking the first set at a canter, jumping all over Murray's vulnerable second serve and dictating play with his first serve and forehand. After 35 mins, the Scot was a set and a break down and heading for the exit, but a bizarre dispute over three consecutive let serves seemed to spark him into life. Murray seemed revitalised and rejuvenated, his body language fresh and upbeat, and as a result, he raced to five games in a row to level the match at one set apiece.

Unfortunately for Moya, his exploits yesterday, where he had to play 4 sets of tennis in exhausting conditions, were seeming to catch up on him. Murray started to dominate the rallies, outmanoeurving his older opponent and playing some delightful shots on the run.

Excluding a couple of double faults, it was a textbook finish from Murray, breaking to secure the victory, one which has him on the brink of breaking new ground. He will face either Ivo Karlovic or Philipp Kohlschreiber tomorrow.

Murray's post-match comments
It was really tough at the start. He was serving well, and I threw in a lot of unforced errors.

I think I can win a Masters Series, and I'd love to do it this week. I played well last week and had a tight match against Nadal.

I'm playing well enough and can hopefully come through.

Match statistics (1 image)

Great chance for his first master series final

must say though, i've got a bad feeling about karlovic. hopefully muzza's return of serve is at its very best

Hi, I just want to say well done to the Murray brothers representing GB in the Olympics. It is great news and I wish them all the luck in the world. Waghorn

i suppose, but the american hard court season is probably his best chance he has to win a masters series - im glad he's being that positive, its much better than his attitude after he lost to ancic in barcelona.

the british media will harp on about grand slam success but he has to win a masters first to prove he can beat the top three. thats gotta be the first step

Anyway, it's there now!

Andy,

 I have faith in you, I knew you were a champion from the first day I saw you. You have a rare talent and you have  tailored your temprement to fit your game.     Keep it up.  Chris,  West Sussex.