Murray breaks through on clay in Munich
May 4, 2015
Munich/Germany — Andy Murray and Richard Gasquet both won trophies this past weekend, with Murray winning his first title on clay and Gasquet showing that he’s back in action after six weeks of injury.
Murray, who endorses the HEAD Graphene Radical, won a three-hour duel over two days – the final had to be suspended on Sunday due to rain. He triumphed over Philipp Kohlschreiber at the BMW Open in Munich, carving out a 7-6(4), 5-7, 7-6(4) victory. His 32nd career trophy was his first on the clay and shows that the Scot could be a threat at Roland Garros, as well as the upcoming Masters 1000 tournaments in Madrid and Rome. It was Murray’s first appearance in Munich and he was happy to be a part of the 100th birthday of the tournament. Along with the trophy, he was awarded with a new BMW i8 plug-in hybrid vehicle, and a Bavarian traditional costume (Lederhosen, leather trousers). “It is unbelievable for me to take the trophy at my first attempt here. It was a tough match with Philipp serving so well and fighting hard”, said Murray.
Gasquet – who endorses the HEAD IG Extreme – won the Estoril Open with a 6-3, 6-2 defeat over Nick Kyrgios. Gasquet’s victory over Kyrgios in 63 minutes was strong, especially after losing to the Australian in the second round of Wimbledon last summer. “I’m just coming back on tour and still don’t feel at 100 percent physically, but this week will certainly give me confidence,” said Gasquet, who missed six weeks with back problems. “My fitness improved all week and I served better in each match. This is an unbelievable win for me. With my back the way it was, I would not have ever dreamed of this success. To feel no pain, it’s a good thing for me.”
In Istanbul, Pablo Cuevas, who endorses the HEAD Graphene Prestige, saved three match points in his final at the first-time clay event against Roger Federer, going down to the Swiss 3-6, 6-7 (11). “It’s difficult to face Roger, not only because of his game but also to stay focused on the game and not get distracted. It was a very good experience for me, and I think it will help me in the future,” said Cuevas.