Andy Murray was stunned by Taro Daniel in the 2nd round of the 2022 Australian Open. Murray gained revenge as he beat Taro 6-2, 6-2 in 1 hour and 20 minutes at the 2022 Qatar Open.
Murray’s hope of a long run at this year’s Australian Open were ended by Daniel in straight sets in Melbourne. He suffered his worst ever Major loss in terms of ranking in the match which lasted for 2 hours and 48 minutes.
The Japanese stunned Murray 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 in the 2nd round of men’s singles at the John Cain Arena.
Andy Murray Defeats Taro Daniels in Doha
Andy Murray gained revenge over his Australian Open conqueror Taro Daniel by defeating him in straight sets to reach the last 16 of the Qatar Open. Murray secured a 6-2 6-2 victory to set up a meeting with Roberto Bautista Agut next in Doha.
After a dodgy opening, it was Andy who clinched the first break in the 6th game to move 4-2 up.
A second break in the game sealed the opener after Murray managed to play a lengthy rally to pass Daniel at the net and take the first of three set points.
Taro gained the upper hand at the start of the second with an immediate break. However he was pegged back instantly by the former world no.1.
Murray’s Thoughts on the Match
Doha has always been a happy hunting ground for Andy Murray, having won the title in 2008 and 2009 while reaching a further two finals in 2007 and 2017.
Andy was pleased with how he dealt with the threat of world No.110 Daniel this time.
“He played very well in Australia, he had a very good run there and was too good for me there.”
“I tried to be the one dictating from the first point, and I thought I did that well. It was one of the better matches I’ve played in recent months.”
The Scot is pleased with his performance and was also happy playing there. His previous performances in Doha are brilliant.
He said, “Obviously, the results from 12 years ago aren’t going to affect the results this week.”
“But what it tells me is that the conditions here are good for my game, so if I can play to a good level, the courts are going to suit me here, and I’ll make it difficult for everyone I play against.”
He further added, “I believe that my tennis can improve providing I put in the right work & consistently work on the right things.”
Andy Murray will next face 2nd seed Roberto Bautista Agut in round two.