Andy Murray is due to play doubles at this week’s Italian Open.
Murray will partner up with his compatriot, Liam Broady. Broady is currently ranked #145 in the doubles world rankings. The pair were entered into the draw as alternates after Hubert Hurkacz and Felix Auger-Aliassime withdrew.
This will be the first time the pair have played doubles on the ATP Tour together, and, unfortunately for the Brits, they won’t be given time to settle. Their first round opponents are Australian players Luke Saville and Max Purcell. The Aussies made the final of the Australian Open in 2020 so are no slouches on the doubles court.
Murray hasn’t played competitively since the beginning of March. More importantly, he hasn’t played doubles at the highest level since he lost to his brother, Jamie, at the 2019 Cincinnati Masters. His late entry will provide him with some much needed practice prior to potentially heading to Geneva, Lyon, and Roland Garros.
Brits Struggle in Rome
It’s been a tough start to the tournament for the British men’s contingent. Dan Evans lost to Taylor Fritz in the first round of the singles and Jamie Murray and his partner, Bruno Soares, lost to Daniil Medvedev and Marcel Demoliner in the first round of the doubles. Murray’s doubles entry is a much-needed boost for British fans. Fans will also have their fingers crossed in the following matches.
- Cam Norrie is due to play Roberto Carballes Baena in the singles.
- Joe Salisbury and Rajeev Ram will play Belgian pair Sander Gille and Joran Vliegen.
- Two time Masters finalists in 2021, Dan Evans and Neal Skupski will open their bout against Marcelo Arevalo and Matwe Middelkoop.
Whatever happens, the worst seems to be behind Andy Murray as he gets ready to play several tournaments. Hopefully he can get close to the level he is looking for under the guidance of a new addition to his coaching team, Mark Petchey.
Main Photo from Getty.
