This is the first time Delbonis has beaten a player ranked as high as Murray. PHOTO: AFP
Murray was playing in his first ATP Tour tournament since losing to world number one Novak Djokovic in the final of the Australian Open in January.
“It was a tough one to lose,” said Murray. “I fought hard to get into a winning position. I couldn’t go for my shots and when I did, I made mistakes.”
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Murray, who became a father on February 7 with the birth of his daughter Sophia Oliva, looked rusty after his lay-off.
His downfall was an inability control the match with his serve and volley. Delbonis was much stronger in the longer rallies in the first career meeting between the two.
Murray’s forehand on match point sailed well wide and long, ending the two hour, 46 minute contest on Stadium Court.
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“He came up with some good passing shots. I could have done a bit more with the volleys and my serve,” said Murray. “He moved better than what I expected.”
Delbonis has been one of the busiest players in 2016 and it showed as he used a variety of shots to keep Murray off his guard. Indian Wells was his sixth tournament of the season.
This is the first time Delbonis has beaten a player ranked as high as Murray, but not the first time the claycourt specialist has knocked off a top five powerhouse.
Published in The Express Tribune, March 16th, 2016.
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