Murray bows to Berrettini in poor start for Brits

Andy Murray became the first Brit to fall on Friday from four remaining in the third round as he lost 6-4, 6-4 6-7(1), 6-3 to Matteo Berrettini at the US Open.

The three-time grand Slam champion headed the field of compatriots, with newcomer Jack Draper also playing his third-round match on the day.

Murray was unable to make inroads into the game of the 2021 Wimbledon finalist from Italy, with the frustrated Scot effing and blinding at himself throughout the drama lasting for three and three-quarter hours. 

Murray failed to make it to the second week of a major for the 38th time in his career, with Berrettini putting him under pressure with 15 break point chances – five saved.

The unseeded Murray had 24 winners against well over twice that number from 13th seed Berrettini.

The win was a repeat of the June Stuttgart grass final also won by the Italian.

 “I knew I would have my chances and I took them,” the winner said of his comeback in the fourth set after losing the third.