Andy Murray is back in his first singles match since he was sidelined with hip surgery. He will take on familiar foe Richard Gasquet in his highly anticipated return on the hard courts of Cincinnati on Monday.
(WC) Andy Murray vs. Richard Gasquet
Former world No. 1 Andy Murray struggled with hip pain for many months leading up to this year’s Australian Open. The effects were so intense that the Scot announced his retirement from the sport (a decision he fortunately reconsidered). Murray has dabbled with a return to tennis on the doubles circuit, playing with everyone from his brother Jamie to Feliciano Lopez, with whom he won the title at Queen’s Club.
On Monday he will play his first singles match since the Australian Open against Richard Gasquet. There is no easy way to come back from hip resurfacing surgery, but a match against somebody as familiar to him as Gasquet is and against whom he has enjoyed such success is a good start. Their playing history won’t be much of a factor. Murray hasn’t played a competitive singles match in six months and hasn’t been at his best for more than a year. His 8-3 record over the Frenchman will only take him so far.
Meanwhile, Gasquet has demonstrated a tendency to let big moments overwhelm him. And Murray’s first singles match back certainly qualifies for that distinction. Since there is no guarantee that Murray will hold up physically, Gasquet must be considered the favorite in Monday’s first-round encounter…however, don’t be too surprised if Murray somehow finds a way to win.
Cheryl pick: Gasquet in 3
Ricky pick: Gasquet in 3
[polldaddy poll=10383710]
WWW?