Allow me to write off Mr Murray

A year and a half ago I happily ruled out in this blog Andy Murray winning Wimbledon 2009 – I just couldn’t see it happening.

Three months ago I was perched with a bit more balance on the fence, but still lacking any conviction the Scot would get closer to his grand slam ambition in London.

And with the dust settling on another showpiece early exit – this time the US Open on Sunday night – it feels like the pencil should be sharpened on writing him off altogether.

Tennis is a sport where you don’t get very long to fulfil your goals; rarely do you get two chances to peak and deliver on your potential.

Even at the age of 23, having performed to a consistent level near the top of the world rankings, it’s no longer a question of whether Murray is good enough to win a grand slam title.

But quite simply, will he?

Having two greats of the game in his generation doesn’t help. Had Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal not been around, it may have been different.

But there have also been times when Murray’s early exits and failures to beat lower ranked players have cost him just as much.

Don’t get me wrong, he is comfortably the best tennis professional – in terms of consistency – these islands have produced in the open era, and it would be fitting therefore if he brought home one of the big four.

But the younger ones below him will start to catch up, and the opportunities to beat them and others will become harder.

And be it Roland Garros, Wimbledon, Melbourne or Flushing Meadow, I just cannot see that happening either.

posted on 07 September 2010 16:51 byMichael Bailey - Sportsdesk

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