Murray Moves Up

Andy Murray has defeated David Ferrer 5-7 6-2 7-5 to claim the Erste Bank Open title in Vienna, and moves himself up to 8th in the race to London, with three spots left for the taking. Not long until this year’s season finale, now Murray can finally say he has one foot on court.

Murray looked emotional and relieved as he took in his victory over David Ferrer in Vienna today. He knows that this has improved his chances of qualifying for London; barring any major upsets the Scot should be making an appearance at the O2 in November. Not only that but he is back to winning ways after an up-and-down Asian Swing. The pressure must have been getting to him. This is only his second title of 2014, but he has now become the 5th active player to lift 30 trophies- an achievement to be commended.

The match itself was extremely hard fought, lasting 2 hours and 42 minutes. No less should be expected when playing David Ferrer; the dogged Spaniard is nothing if not a fighter. Ferrer clinched the first set after Murray let his service game slip at 6-5. Murray then took control of the match, coming back strongly and winning the second set 6-2.

The final set was by far the most frustrating for both players, several breaks were traded, and Ferrer missed his opportunity to win when serving at 5-3, the Spaniard was broken twice more, allowing Andy to steal it 7-5.

After the match Murray commented on his battle with Ferrer to reach London:

“He won in Shanghai last week, I won here. Whoever qualifies for the finals will deserve it. It’s the best players over the 12 months. We’ll see over the next weeks, but it’s going to be very close.”

There are now only three places left up for grabs in London, with Marin Cilic taking the title in Moscow this week, the 26 year old has been guaranteed the 5th spot in the line-up. He joins previous qualifiers Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal, Roger Federer and Stan Wawrinka.

It is perhaps interesting to note how this emphasises the strength of European tennis when compared to the rest of the world. It’s likely Kei Nishikori will buck the trend as Asia’s sole representative within the tennis elite. Certainly it’s been a fair while since an American has been in the top 10, something which I’m sure is a sore point for the USTA- American tennis, on the men’s side at least has been on a downward turn since Roddick’s departure from the tour.

In a few weeks’ time the top 8 will be confirmed, and the line-up for London’s ATP World Tour Finals complete. Be sure to check back for all the latest on the final stages of 2014’s tennis calendar.

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