Winston-Salem Open 2021 R2: Andy Murray vs Frances Tiafoe Preview, Head-to-Head & Prediction

Despite the end of the mega-entertainer Cincinnati Open, tennis action continues. All eyes turn to the final ATP event in the build-up to the iconic US Open 2021. With one too many popular faces taking to its courts, the Winston-Salem Open is proving its money’s worth. Notably, fans now wait on the edge of their seats as Britain’s golden boy, Andy Murray, takes on home favorite, Frances Tiafoe.

Hurt but not retired yet, Andy Murray continues on his quest for a fairytale return. Gearing up for the US Open, he now faces American international Frances Tiafoe in round 2 of the Winston-Salem Open. Both the giants had two different starts to the tournament, with Tiafoe receiving a bye and Andy progressing with a comfortable win in the first round.

However, things are about to get heated as both the in-form stars prepare for a fierce clash. Who’s masterclass display will see off the other?

Andy Murray vs Frances Tiafoe: Preview, Head-to-Head, & Predictions

The duo has been part of the news for varied reasons. Notably, Andy’s opening clash made rounds of the internet, courtesy of his initial opponent. Andy was all set to face Aussie superstar Nick Kyrgios in the first round of the competition, but the 26-year-old later backed out from the tournament, citing injury concerns.

As per the ATP rulebook, this would open the door to a lucky loser, who would face Andy on-court, despite having lost in the qualifying round. Notably, so, it was a dream come true for the American star, Noah Rubin, as he won a second chance to fight for the title.

However, with a dominant display, Andy triumphed over the game and tasted victory. Having just finished his qualifying round in a 127-minute long match, Rubin had little to no energy. Taking advantage of the same, Andy breezed past him, as he bagelled the American out of the competition.

Unlike Andy, Tiafoe has had a rather quiet start to the tournament. He progressed into the next round, courtesy of a bye. So far in the season, he’s had his struggles but has had plenty of positives to take as well. Particularly, his recent heroics at the Cincinnati Open surely make him one to look out for.

In their only outing so far, the veteran toppled the 23-year-old in a three-set thriller.

However, any intentions of replicating the same will require something special from Andy. In an evenly balanced outing, Tiafoe will surely display the lethal attacking style he is famous for. Will vintage Andy reply?

Prediction: Murry to def. Tiafoe in three sets.

Is this the chance he’s been waiting for?

Sadly, injuries have riddled Andy Murray’s once decorated career. While his records still stand, he is yet to mark a noteworthy win, ever since his miraculous return. Andy Murray recovered from a career-threatening hip injury earlier this year and announced his arrival at the 2021 Wimbledon Championship in style. Fans bawled their eyes out to the sight of the former gold medalist, unaware of what was about to come.

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Soon enough, Andy bowed out of the tournament, unfortunately failing to keep up with the new profound caliber of the competition. His appearance at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics surely turned heads too, but the result was nothing new.

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As he continues on his quest for a fairytale return, fans wonder if this is it? Can Andy Murray find his form at the Winston-Salem Open and march towards a Grand Slam title at the forthcoming US Open 2021?