• French Open, Day Two

Murray through after marathon match

ESPN staff
May 24, 2010
Andy Murray will hope to serve better when he faces Juan Ignacio Chela in the next round © Getty Images
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Andy Murray produced a stunning comeback to reach the second round of the French Open in Paris.

The world No. 4 was a two sets down and trailing in the third set against local favourite Richard Gasquet, but clung on to win 4-6 6-7(5) 6-4 6-2 6-1.

It was billed as the match of the first round, with the unseeded Gasquet making his first appearance at Roland Garros in three years. The first set lived up to expectation as the counter-punching Murray provided a match for his aggressive French opponent.

Murray has been criticised in recent weeks for his lack of aggression on court, and Gasquet took the opening set as the Scot was made to pay for an inconsistent serve. Gasquet was cruising and took the second set on a tiebreak. Just as it looked like the Frenchman was on the brink of a memorable upset, Murray managed to break back to level the scores in the third set.

The doubt started to creep in, and Gasquet, who came through a gruelling three-set win against Fernando Verdasco to win the Open de Nice on Saturday, began to tense up. As both players began to tire, their service games were open to attack.

Gasquet received treatment on his legs and with Murray on the verge of an early exit, the momentum swung dramatically in his favour. With Murray playing with more confidence and operating on fresher legs there was no way back for Gasquet.

While the victory will undoubtedly be a mental boost for Murray, the effects of four hours on court remains to be seen. Next up for the British No. 1 is Argentina's Juan Ignacio Chela, who beat Ryan Sweeting in straight sets.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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