“Would Prefer Playing With the Crowd”: Andy Murray Reveals Drop in Intensity Due to No Fans

Andy Murray took us back to the yesteryears as he defeated Alexander Zverev in a three-set thriller at the Western and Southern Open. Murray who is languishing in the 100s in the rankings defeated Zverev who is 122 places above him.

Due to recurring hip injuries, Murray was sidelined for a long time and even considered retirement. But this win should uplift the mood in the Murray camp.

“You feed off the crowd” – Andy Murray

Murray who was in the elusive group of the Big 4 usually gets a lot of support from the crowd. In a big tournament like an ATP masters 1000s, Murray would have the crowd rallying behind him. But due to the global coronavirus pandemic, the USTA has decided to hold the Cincinnati Open and the US Open behind closed doors.

In two days Murray has played 2 three-set matches. And after his victory against Zverev, the three-time Grand Slam champion said that he would prefer playing with crowds. He compared the situation now with what it was like before. On the court, the player feeds from the crowd. The crowd brings in that extra motivation and energy for the player.

“I would way prefer playing with the crowd. I hit a running passing shot winner up the line… and you get silence! You feed off the crowd. That maybe explains the drop in intensity in a long match like that.” Murray said

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Murray played Frances Tiafoe in the first round. And that match lasted for more than two hours. His second-round match against Zverev also surpassed the two-hour mark. Playing such long gruesome matches without the crowd is tough.

Murray will now have to look after his fatigue. As he plays the third-round match today against Milos Raonic he will have to stay strong physically and mentally. Further strong performances could make Murray a force in the Grand Slams.