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Murray, Nishikori Advance at Australian Open

Jan 16th 2017

In the Men’s draw, fifth-seeded Kei Nishikori outlasted Andrey Kuznetsov 5-7, 6-1, 6-4, 6-7 (6/8), 6-2 in a thriller that lasted more than 3 hours and 30 minutes in the scorching heat.

The Russian quickly put Nishikori on the defensive in the opening set with two service breaks but the native of Japan began to find his groove in the second set and appeared to be on a path to close out the match. However, the 25-year old showed fight in the fourth set taking a competitive tiebreak to force a deciding fifth set. Finally, Nishikori took control of the match for good in the final set to advance.

Kei Nishikori

“It wasn't easy, especially mentally and I should have finished it in four sets,” Nishikori said. “I was more relaxed and really focused in the fifth set and I'm really happy to get through the first round.”

The blistering heat took its toll on the competitors as Nishikori was among those who applied ice bags during changeovers. He will face veteran Jeremy Chardy in the second round. The Frenchman advanced win Nicolas Almagro was forced to retire down 4-0 in the first set.

Meanwhile, it was smoother sailing for top-seeded Andy Murray who advanced after a 7-6, 7-6, 6-2 win against Illya Marchenko.

Andy Murray

The world no.1 was tested early but found his stride in the third set, shook off any rust, and closed out the match. A frustrated Murray was vocal early as he attempted to motivate himself. Recognizing his slow start, he yelled, “wake up” at one point.

Murray made it clear that despite his recent success, he is motivated to win his maiden Australian Open title, “The last three or four months were tough, physically and mentally, but great at the same time. The ranking doesn’t change anything. I’ve lost here a few times. I’m hoping to go one better this time.”

The Scot will face qualifier Andrey Rublev of Russia next.