News Digest

Andy Murray, Rafael Nadal in strait-sets win at the Australian Open

Andy Murray, aiming to end his heartbreak run at the Australian Open, overcame India’s Yuki Bhambri in his opening match Monday to set up a second-round encounter with volatile local Marinko Matosevic. Murray, 27, who is bidding to become the first player to win the Australian Open title after losing three finals in Melbourne, kicked off this year’s campaign with a straight sets win. The Scot emerged a 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (7/3) winner in 2hr 13min on Margaret Court Arena, but paid tribute to 22-year-old Bhambri - the lowest-ranked player in the men’s draw at 317. Murray, who has been working for the last seven months with two-time Grand Slam winner and coach Amelie Mauresmo, was pleased with the state of his game ahead of his next challenge against the unpredictable Matosevic before a home crowd.

I thought it was a tricky match. He played well up at the net. He had good hands, solid volleys and made it tough. [He’s] way better than ranked 300 in the world.

Andy Murray

Meanwhile, Rafael Nadal enjoyed a welcome dose of confidence in dismantling Russian veteran Mikhail Youzhny 6-3 6-2 6-2 to reach the second round of the Australian Open on Monday. And, former world number one Ana Ivanovic crashed out on the opening day at Melbourne Park. The upsets came earlier than expected and the intrigue was meant to occur on Rod Laver Arena, where third seed Nadal’s comeback from illness and injury was expected to be given a thorough examination by Russian veteran Mikhail Youzhny.