Murray wins China opener as Olympic dream re-ignites

Andy Murray advanced in his opening match in China on Thursday with the veteran yearning for a go at an Olympic gold medal hat-trick..

The 41st-ranked Scot opened in Zhuhai. just over the border in Macau, as he defeated Chinese wildcard Mo Ye Cong 7-5 6-3.

The 36-year-old has his eye locked onto next year’s Paris Games, where he can only dream of lifting his third Olympic gold medal after winning his first two in London, 2012 and Rio four years later.

After more than half a decade of hip and abdominal problems, the achievement would be the cornerstone of a record-setting career. He adds

But the veteran’s winning run was busted in Tokyo in 2021 when he and British partner Joe Salisbury exited in the quarter-finals.

“I’d love to play another Olympics. I have had thrilling experiences throughout my career at the Olympics,” the former No. 1 said. 

“I’ve loved every single one that I’ve been involved in.” 

He explained that injury prevented a top performance when it mattered in Japan.

“I’d gotten an injury right before the tournament and I promised my partner … I would prioritise doubles over singles if there was a problem. 

“We were very close to getting a medal in the doubles, up a set, 4-3 and serving.

“I was was really disappointed with the last one and I would love another opportunity to play next year in Paris. 

“It would be my fifth Olympics and most likely the last one.”

Murray will concentrate on his task at hand in a second-round match in China with former Australian Open semi-finalist Aslan Karatsev, who he lost to at Sydney in January, 2022.

Main photo:- 2012 London Olympics Men’s Singles Medal Ceremony Andy Murray – GBR – Gold,Roger Federer (SUI) – Silver Juan Martin del Potro – (ARG) – Bronze by Roger Parker Fotosports International