One More to Go: Andy Murray

Scotsman Andy Murray defeated Croatian Marin Cilic 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-2 in 3 hours and 2 minutes. Murray started the match off a little tight, but opened up as the match wore on. Murray’s goal was to extend the rallies from the baseline to work the tired legs of the young Croat who had contested in 3 five setters and 2 four setters before Thursday’s semifinal match versus Murray. In the final game, the British hope accentuated his 2010 Australian Open with the shot of the tournament as he threaded a forehand down the line winner between the net post and the chair umpire while sprinting at full speed from about 5 feet (1.5 meters) outside the doubles alley.

FUTURE OUTLOOK: Murray now has two full days off before competing in his second Grand Slam final of his career (2008 US Open vs. Federer). Him and his team will carefully dissect Friday night’s semifinal between world #1 Roger Federer and the hard hitting Frenchman Jo-Wilfred Tsonga to create the ideal game plan for the final. In the last year or so, Murray has used his world class fitness to turn most matches into a pure athletic contest, look for the Brit to attack the final in similar fashion. His variety, consistency, and all out intensity will give both potential final competitors an extremely tough match. Continue following GEM Tennis for a Men’s final preview. Enjoy tomorrow’s second semifinal!