“Need to Give Him the Chance”: Former Grand Slam Finalist Backs Andy Murray After Recent Backlash

Former World No.1 Andy Murray faced a horror show at Roland Garros. The former world number one slipped to a straight-set defeat to three-time Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka in the first round of French Open 2020. Post that, certain comments from Former Grand Slam winner Mats Wilander caused a major controversy.

Mats Wilander had accused Andy Murray of taking away opportunities from the young players by accepting a wild card at French Open 2020. Wilander said Murray was giving a “false sense of hope” of a successful return to his prime.

In response to Wilander’s comments, former Grand Slam finalist Alex Corretja asked people to give Murray a chance before passing judgments.

“I totally understand that Andy is trying to get back to his best, I’m sure he knows it will be very difficult, but you need to give him the chance to see if he at least feels better on the court, no matter if he wins slams again or not, and try to enjoy the rest of his career,” Corretja said.

Alex Corretja on why Andy Murray might be struggling

Corretja further said that lack of match practice because of various circumstances hasn’t helped Murray. Hence, he shouldn’t be judged on his current performances.

“In my opinion, playing best-of-five on clay in these conditions after such a long time without playing matches, in two-and-a-half years where he hasn’t played much, is not a reference.”

Corretja had coached Andy Murray from 2008 to 2011. Back then, Murray was hitting his prime. However, hip replacement surgeries and the tennis break have made it very tough for Murray to replicate his peak. Moreover, as Corretja explained, lack of match practice pulls him further down.

Murray won his first Grand Slam match in two years at US Open 2020 but failed to pass the 2nd round.

Murray’s camp hasn’t given any hints of a retirement. Moreover, he has repeatedly expressed his happiness at being able to play tennis even when with his career-threatening surgeries.

Read More: “Shut up”: Nick Kyrgios Slams Mats Wilander For Criticizing Andy Murray After French Open 2020 Defeat