Becker applauds Murray’s determination

Boris Becker has applauded the gritty determination of Andy Murray after the Scot dropped down a level last month to win a Challenger event in France on clay.

Six-time Grand Slam champion Becker told Eurosport of his admiration for Murray – a fellow former No. 1 – who is not too proud to polish his game on the entry level if it leads to improvement.

The German called Murray “a role model for the younger generation.”

Becker added: “The question is: why play a Challenger tournament? Because he just knows that even Andy Murray needs match experience and field wins.

“He really does do everything you would advise a junior player to do.

“As a former world No. 1, two-time Wimbledon winner and decorated Scotsman, he knows he has to keep up with the competition.”

Becker said the old-school grit displayed by the 35-year-old is becoming obsolete in the current game.

“The fact that these big stars still play isn’t the money, it’s just the love of the game.

“They know they need match experience to develop and improve.

“I don’t always see that with younger players. I watch a lot of games where I wonder why they play.

“I don’t see the passion there, nor the ability to suffer, something that can’t be said about (Swiss three-time Grand Slam champion Stan) Wawrinka or Murray.”

Main photo:- Eurosport TV pundit Boris Becker by Roger Parker International Sports Fotos Ltd