• ATP Tour

Murray vows to end 2012 on a high

ESPN staff
September 30, 2012
Andy Murray broke his grand slam duck at Flushing Meadows © PA Photos
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Andy Murray has set his sights on winning the ATP World Tour Finals in London after enjoying the best season of his career to date.

The world No. 3, who ended Britain's 76-year wait for a men's grand slam singles champion with victory at the US Open earlier this month, has arrived in Tokyo for the defence of his Japan Open title.

Murray, who won an Asian hardcourt hat-trick with victories in Bangkok, Tokyo and Shanghai last season, faces Frenchman Gael Monfils in his first match.

The Scot was forced to pull out of last year's season-ending championships with a groin injury, but is hoping to crown a memorable year, in which he reached the Wimbledon final before winning Olympic gold at London 2012, with a strong showing on home soil.

"Obviously I have good memories of Tokyo from last year," said Murray, who beat Rafael Nadal in last year's final. "It's nice to come back. I'd also like to play well at the Tour Finals in London. I didn't have the chance to do that last year.

"It was a very disappointing way to end the year. I want to make sure I'm 100% fit for that tournament and finish the year well there."

Playing in his first match since his victory over Novak Djokovic in New York, Murray faces a tricky opponent in the shape of Monfils.

"It will be a tough first match against Monfils," Murray said. "I've played him I think five times and lost to him a couple of times. He's a great athlete."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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