The latest comeback by Andy Murray is a positive thing for men’s tennis, according to world No.2 Roger Federer.
32-year-old Murray is currently ranked outside the world’s top 500 due to a high-profile battle with a hip injury. Earlier this year he underwent a second operation within as many years in a what was a career-saving move. Since then, it has been steady progress for Murray. Who has played singles in five tournaments since June. Four on the ATP Tour and one at Challenger level. At this week’s China Open he reached the quarter-finals before losing to top seed Dominic Thiem.
Speaking about Murray’s return in Shanghai on Sunday, Federer paid tribute to his rival. Two have locked horns on the ATP Tour 25 times since 2005. Federer currently leads their head-to-head 14-11 and won their most recent clash at the 2015 Cincinnati Masters.
“It was great to see him again and just chat with him for a little bit,” Federer said during media day at the Shanghai Masters. “I think it’s super exciting for the Tour and for us players because he’s very much a guy we like and respect a lot. Doesn’t have enemies. We need guys like him who also lead by example with hard work and toughness and fairness.
”I love seeing Andy back. I also feel like he’s playing better and better, which is going to be great.”
It is unlikely the two will renew their rivalry in Shanghai this year. Unless they both reach the final of the tournament, which has a prize money pool of just over $4.7 million. Although Murray, who will open his campaign against Juan Inacio Londero, believes he is slowly returning to playing tennis at a high standard.
“I’m playing well enough to be competitive at this level against all of the players,” Murray said earlier in the week.
“Maybe not quite consistent enough just now to beat maybe the top players.
“But I think against guys that are No. 10 or No. 20 in the world, I can compete well against them just now.”
Unlike Murray, Federer has a bye in the first round. He will open up his campaign against either former US Open winner Marin Cilic or Albert Ramos Vinolas.
