Schwartzman too strong for Murray

Diego Schwartzman ended Andy Murray’s run in the Antwerp European Open with a two set victory 6-4,7-6(5)

Things looked promising for the Scot when he raced to a 4-1 lead in the first set, but the No. 2 seed Argentine then reeled off five unanswered games to claim the opening set 6-4.

Schwartzman edged ahead in the second set, breaking for a 4-2 lead but Murray fought back to take the set into a tie break.

Eight points went against serve before the World No. 14 closed out the breaker 7-5.

Having played well over 1200 matches between them on the ATP tour this was the first time they had faced off against each other.

Despite winning a 2021 season record breaking three and three quarter hour match against Frances Tiafoe two days ago, Murray showed no signs of fatigue, but the step up in quality was too much for Murray.

After the match Schwartzman said of new opponent Murray “It was a pleasure to play against him. When I was growing up, I watched him, Roger, Rafa, Novak.

We didn’t play before and every week, he’s coming back and getting better”

Schwartzman will next play Brandon Nakashima in the quarter final.