Australian Open: He makes our sport shine, says John McEnroe after Andy Murray’s victory over Thanasi Kokkinakis

Legendary tennis star John McEnroe has heaped praise on three-time Grand Slam winner Andy Murray, saying he makes the sport of tennis shine. Murray defeated Thanasi Kokkinakis in a thrilling encounter that lasted late into the night in Melbourne.

New Delhi,UPDATED: January 20, 2023 10:28 AM IST

McEnroe says Murray is a legendary player (`)

From India Today Web Desk: Legendary tennis star John McEnroe has heaped praise on three-time Grand Slam winner Andy Murray, saying he makes the sport of tennis shine. Murray defeated Thanasi Kokkinakis in a thrilling encounter that lasted late into the night in Melbourne.

Speaking to Eurosport, McEnroe said Murray has the heart of a champion but he will have to dig deep to book a win over Kokkinakis.

“For a start it was crazy that games at this level are being played at this time in the morning. Murray, we knew he had the heart of a champion, that goes without saying, but that’s him digging deeper than I’ve ever seen him with everything he’s been through,” McEnroe said.

The former tennis player said it was a historic win for Murray but the game’s longevity could also have consequences later.

“Personally, as an ex-player, it makes me proud to see these tennis players – Andy in particular. Kokkinakis, you sympathize with him but it’s one of those moments where you’re proud of your sport and see the guys give 110% for five and a half hours. That’s historic, but you also worry about the consequences on the road. There’s recovery, when could you even think about going to sleep? How do you even look at the next opponent?” McEnroe added.

He said Murray makes tennis shine, adding that the British star has a desire to compete and give everything he has.

“I would tell Andy Murray you make our sport shine. Who never give up, never say the mottos you hear, the clichés you would send him in a heartbeat, because this is about the love of sport more than anything else. His desire to compete, to get out there and just give what he’s got,” McEnroe said.

Murray beat Kokkinakis 4-6, 6-7(4), 7-6(5), 6-3, 7-5 in a match that lasted 5 hours and 45 minutes.

Edited by:

Rounaq Sehawat

Published on:

January 20, 2023