The Western and Southern Open 2021 has not had the best of weather conditions. Right from the start of the week, constant rain delays have disrupted the proceedings. Being held in Cincinnati, the tournament has seen numerous matches being rescheduled and postponed. Fed up of the situation, former Cincinnati Open winner Andy Murray took matters into his own hands.
Andy Murray helps dry the practice court
The gloomy weather has been disheartening for both fans and the players. It is quite unusual in the American city at this time, and left many matches on cliffhangers. The rain also left large puddles of water on the practice courts outside. This put the plans of multiple competitors to a halt. Citing the situation, Britain’s Murray decided to provide some help.
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In a video released by the tournament’s official page, the 3-time Grand Slam winner is seen drying up the court after a rain interruption. It was a kind, yet hilarious act of generosity. Murray even managed to draw some onlookers, as they watched him at work. The page captioned the video, “Earlier today, Scottish rain consultant Andy Murray was on the job.” Here it is.
Earlier today, Scottish rain consultant @andy_murray was on the job
@rjent4 | #CincyTennis pic.twitter.com/dwgMlfGvEZ
— Western & Southern Open (@CincyTennis) August 19, 2021
Murray knocked out of Cincinnati Open 2021 by Hubert Hurkacz
On Wednesday, the Brit took on Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz for a spot in the last-16. Unlike the wet conditions seen in the clip, Murray was welcomed to Grandstand Court with a packed crowd and sunny weather. In a rather slow-paced encounter, the former World No.1 went toe-to-toe with the in-form Hurkacz. He even had golden chances to claim the opening set, but did not convert when needed.
After the first set was out of his grasp, there was no way back for Andy. The Wimbledon 2021 semifinalist lifted his level, and pounded his way towards victory. In just under two hours, the Pole prevailed 7-6(4) 6-3. Having beaten Richard Gasquet in the opening round, Murray would’ve been upset at not going deep into the tournament.
After the loss, the 2-time Olympic gold medalist will head to New York for the US Open. Though he is a fan-favorite, the odds will be stacked against Murray. A lot will depend on how fresh he is, and whether or not the draw is favorable. How far will Andy Murray make it at the final major of the season? Let us know in the comments.
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