Former US Open and Wimbledon champion Andy Murray battled past Frances Tiafoe 7-6 (8-6) 3-6 6-1 in his first match of the year at the Western and Southern Open in New York.
The Dunblane player, who is now ranked world number 129, made his first appearance since he claimed his 46th title in Antwerp last October.
Neither player was able to earn a break in the first set. Tiafoe earned a mini-break to open up a 5-2 lead in the tie-break of the first set. Murray fended off a set point on his second serve at 5-6. The British player hit a forehand passing shot two points later to seal the tie-break 8-6.
Tiafoe earned a single break point chance in the second set. The young US player broke serve with a low backhand drop volley at 4-3.
Murray broke in the first game to race out to a 3-0 lead. The Scotsman got a double break at 4-1 with a backhand return winner and served out the match at love to score his 32nd win at the Western and Southern Open.
Murray has been awarded a wildcard into the main draw of the US Open.
The British star battled an injury problem before the ATP Tour was suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic. He is now back to full fitness and took part in some exhibition events in Great Britain.
“I felt off the pace at times, but I am feeling quite good on the court physically in terms of my hip”, said Murray.
