[Joe]

Andy Murray bowed out of the Rafa Nadal Open on Thursday night with a 6-3 4-6 6-7 (3-7) loss to Matteo Viola, the world number 240.



In the Balearics to gain more competitive singles exposure on his comeback from January's hip surgery, Murray looked in command with two breaks of the Viola serve in the first set.

Seemingly struck by fatigue and cramps, however, Murray found the going tougher in the second set as his Italian opponent jumped to a 3-0 lead immediately.

The final set at least went to a tie-break after Murray fought back from 0-2 down, but he coughed up a double-fault on Viola's second match point to exit the tournament in the third round.

This was a disappointing loss but one which highlights the work Murray will need to put in to regain the physique and fitness that once took him to the very top of the sport.

Following the match, Murray said:

"I'm cramping, very tired. I enjoyed [being here], I would have liked to play more matches but it was good. I played two competitive matches. Physically, I need to get better."

Murray's attention will now turn to the main ATP Tour in China, where the Zhuhai Open begins on 23rd September.

[moonglow]

Thanks Joe and sorry he lost.  That's a nice picture isn't it?

[marathonarthur]

I see that Viola, who Andy lost to, has made the final in Mallorca. That is a great step forward for him as, I understand, he has been dropping down the rankings for a few years.

[moonglow]

^   That's so exciting you're always the first with "breaking news stories"  
Maybe you should post it in the News Articles thread in the Andy Talk section?
More people might see it there??

Good luck Andy and Kim  

[moonglow]

^  Yes it's there!  Well done