Murray: It’s time to break my Slam duck
ANDY MURRAY insists he is ready to land a first Grand Slam tournament after enjoying “perfect” preparation for this week’s Australian Open.
The world No4 arrived in Melbourne yesterday having reached the final of the Hopman Cup with Laura Robson last week.
Murray is yet to progress beyond the fourth round at Melbourne but has prepared meticulously for the event with plenty of court time in the hot and humid conditions.
And despite suffering defeat to Tommy Robredo in Perth, the Scot insists he is happy with his form.
“The week has been really good. I’ve been really happy with the way I’ve played all week on the court,” the 22-year-old said. “I think it was perfect preparation for the Aussie Open. I’m ready to win it.
“I just need to play well and if I do then there’s no reason why I can’t. I feel like I’m serving well, moving well and hitting the ball better than I have for a long time from the back of the court.
“There’s not a whole lot to complain about. Physically I feel good. It was good to play back-to-back days. My back is a little bit stiff because I haven’t played much in the past six or seven weeks, but it’s good to get the body used to playing. I feel really well prepared.”
With the Hopman Cup played indoors, Murray is now looking to arrange a practice match outdoors to complete his preparation.
“I’ll speak to my coach and the people I work with this week,” he added. “I’m sure I’ll play a match there just to play outdoors.
“Ideally I would have played outdoors last week, but I was able to practice outdoors on the off days to acclimatise.
“I’ll practice a lot next week outdoors and I’m sure I’ll be fine.
“I’ll train hard for the first four or five days and then relax over the weekend and get ready.”