Andy Murray: Trapped In a Shell Of His Own Creation

By
at Internationaled.org

Published: February 5, 2011

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Hopefully this does not need much reaffirming. Andy Murray is not Tim Henman; it has been many a rally since the Scot grasped one of the most poisonous batons in tennis, flew in the face of one-fortnight-a-year flag-waving patriotism, prefaced his first name with the words “Come On” and surpassed his compatriot in titles, major finals (3-0 Murray and counting) and talent.

And that talent is yet to be maximised.

It is not to denigrate Henman, always a thrilling competitor who made the most of what he had (wondrous volleying, sharp movement) in the absence of what he did not (reliable serve, piercing groundstrokes). In another time, what he had might have been plenty. He certainly can’t be blamed for running into Pete Sampras repetitiously.

By the time he had seen the pistol off, half the tour had armed themselves with Kalashnikovs. Worse still, Roger Federer had one in each hand. It was a testament to Henman’s classical excellence that he remained potent at least, even if a major title would elude him.

While the Dunblane man could teach Henman more than a thing or two, he would do well to engage with a touch of his predecessor’s game. That he has the ability to carry it out is beyond question. On the seldom occasions it is seen, Murray’s forecourt play is sublime. He can certainly place himself among the very best in the world.

While a full-blooded net game is an anachronism even on grass courts these days, variety still holds weight. As tennis increasingly recedes into itself, players preferring to close their eyes and hit, then hit it harder, the ability to give yourself options in points appears to have grown in relevance again.

Witness Alexandr Dologopolov’s marvellous run to the quarterfinals in Australia, full of chicanery in the pace, flight and spin he put on the ball. The Ukrainian mesmerised Robin Soderling, perhaps...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Tennis

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