• Rogers Cup

Triumphant Murray will only dive in a Grand Slam final

ESPN staff
August 13, 2010
Gaels Monfils injured himself when diving for a passing shot © Getty Images
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Andy Murray emerged victorious from a pulsating encounter with Gael Monfils at the Rogers Cup, and then promised he will never dive for a ball on the American hard courts unless it was to win the US Open final.

Murray beat Monfils 6-2 0-6 6-3 on Thursday to book a quarter-final date with the in-form David Nalbandian, who won last week's Legg Mason Classic. The Argentinian convincingly overcame Robin Soderling to advance to the last eight.

Murray's clash with Monfils was made memorable by the eccentric antics of the Frenchman, who charged around the court, eventually at his own cost as he damaged a shoulder when diving for a ball.

"My shoulder was a bit sore before the match, and then on the dive, I think I fell on my nerve, so it was really painful then," Monfils revealed. "I think I just pinched my nerve a bit, and then to lift it was very hard for me. So actually, it was tough to serve in the third set."

Having battled his way into the ascendency at the start of the third set, Monfils' actions seemed to cost him as he lost his serve three times in the decider, and Murray admits he will not be making the same mistake.

"He's very entertaining to watch," said the British No. 1. "Diving on a hard court, unless it's sort of a Grand Slam final, I don't know if it's worth the risk. I won't be doing it any time soon."

Now Murray must find a way past Nalbandian if he is to continue the defence of his crown - most likely against Rafael Nadal in the semis - and the Scot says he is currently feeling good about his game.

"I moved better today. At the start of the match especially, I chased a lot of balls down and there were a lot of long rallies."

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