Yahoo Finance Andy Murray beats Frances Tiafoe in ‘unbelievable battle’ at European Open: ‘I’ve never played a match like that’
Andy Murray is revelling in a unique victory in a marathon encounter at the European Open.
The three-time Grand Slam winner overcame American world no48 Frances Tiafoe 7-6 (2) 6-7 (7) 7-6 (8) in Antwerp to tee up a last-16 clash with Diego Schwartzman.
Tuesday night’s epic clash was a real test of endurance, lasting just 15 minutes shy of four hours as the longest three-set match played so far in 2021.
Afterwards, an exhausted Murray, 34, admitted that he had been pushed to the limit in an absorbing contest.
"I don't think I've ever played a match like that," he said.
"I think it's the longest three-set match I've played by quite a distance and I'm tired right now, obviously it was an unbelievable battle.
"Nowadays obviously my body is old now. I've played a lot of matches on the Tour. I don't mind playing long matches, but that was taking it to another level."
Though a stern physical examination, the battling win over Tiafoe continued Murray’s encouraging recent resurgence.
The ex-British no1 overcame highly-rated teenager Carlos Alcaraz en route to the third round at Indian Wells last week, eventually bowing out against third seed Alexander Zverev in a spirited display.
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