Andy Murray looks set to make a return to the singles court. This has been his ultimate aim since having the hip resurfacing operation early in the year.
The former British #1 is in Washington for the Citi Open; he will play the doubles event with older brother Jamie. Having started the comeback on the grass courts at Queen’s, Murray then played Eastbourne and Wimbledon.
Losing early in Eastbourne and Wimbledon men’s doubles, the Brit had teamed up with Serena Williams for the mixed doubles. They made good progress but were eventually defeated.
Murray stated that after Wimbledon he planned for a singles return. No timescale was given. The Brit wanted to see how his body was, and also if he would go to the hard courts in America just for a few doubles matches
This week Murray has been practizing singles, and said in his press conference in Washington:
“Best-case scenario probably would be Cincinnati.”
“Then if I wasn’t able to play in Cincinnati, there’s a good chance I would probably wait until after New York because I wouldn’t want my first tournament to be playing best of five.”
Murray should return after the US Open
I believe the Brit should aim to return after the US Open. These are the reasons:
Firstly, the faster surfaces on the indoor courts at the tail end of the season. These would cause less strain on the body than the slower courts. Shorter points, less running, the fact there is the ability to end the point earlier.
Secondly, the weather. If Murray waits until after the US Open, the tournaments are indoors. This enables planning for the event easier, no having to wait around due to rain. The matches can finish the same day without having to squeeze more in.
The Brit would also have the European hard courts towards the end of the season. Being closer to home, play some indoor events, and then take a break to gear up for the start of the next season.
The biggest incentive to wait until after the US Open has to be being ready to play in front of a home crowd. Murray had hinted previously that he would want to play the Murray Trophy, the Challenger event in Glasgow in September.
Taking the time to ensure full fitness before hitting the singles courts should be the top priority for the Brit. It is still unclear if Murray will be able to return to singles, but he is certainly looking like trying.
Coming back too early would be a disaster. If I was on Murray’s team, I would advise to start with Moselle Open in Metz, France. Following on from there the Brit can go anywhere–there would be no shortage of wild cards offered, not to mention a protected ranking.
Main Photo from Getty.
