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Queen’s exit could be a blessing, says Murray

Defending champ ousted 7-6, 6-2 by Stepanek in third round.

Afp June 13, 2014

Despite being desperate to mount a successful defence of the Wimbledon title, Murray says he is looking forward to take some time off to rest his aching limbs. PHOTO: AFP

LONDON: Andy Murray insists his shock Queen’s Club defeat against Radek Stepanek could be a blessing in disguise because it gives him time to recover for the start of his Wimbledon title defence.

Murray’s bid for a record-equalling fourth Queen’s crown came to an abrupt end on Thursday as Czech veteran Stepanek took advantage of lacklustre display from the world number five to win 7-6 (12/10), 6-2.

On the surface the tame third round loss was a major blow to Murray’s preparations ahead of Wimbledon, which gets underway on June 23, as it deprives him of valuable time honing his game on grass.

But the 27-year-old is confident he can still make any adjustments to his game during his extra practice time with new coach Amelie Mauresmo.

And perhaps even more importantly, the earlier than expected defeat means he can rest his aching limbs after the gruelling clay-court season which climaxed with Murray reaching the French Open semi-finals last week.

“I’ll take a couple of days off because since the Monday before the French Open I’ve played every single day bar one,” said Murray.

“The body needs a little break just now.

“Someone told me Novak [Djokovic] is on holiday in Ibiza. I know normally Rafa [Nadal], when he’s finished the first week of the grass, spends four or five days at home in Majorca and rests up.

“Sometimes the rest is as important as the training, because you don’t want to go into a tournament like Wimbledon tired and not fresh.

“So I’ll take a couple of days off and then start practising Sunday evening and start getting ready.”

While Murray is desperate to mount a successful defence of the Wimbledon title he won so memorably 12 months ago – ending Britain’s 77-year wait for a male singles champion at the All England Club – he knows the tournament brings with it plenty of pressure, stress and unwanted attention.

“I’ll look forward to getting some peace and quiet before it gets hectic again towards the end of next week,” said Murray.

“The next few days will be nice to have a bit of peace and quiet.”

Published in The Express Tribune, June 14^th, 2014.

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