“It Was Incredibly Irritating”- Andy Murray Details a “Painful” Experience During His Match Against Nikoloz Basilashvili

On Day two of the Australian Open 2022, Andy Murray out- classed Nikoloz Basilashvili in an epic match concluding with 6-1, 3-6, 6-4, 7-6 and 6-4.

Moving to the second round, Murray made a glorious comeback in the Grand Slam of the Down Under at the John Cain Arena, earlier today. His first match in a major tournament after his hip surgery lasted for almost four hours.

“It’s been a tough three four years, putting a lot of work to get back here. And I have played on this court many times, the atmosphere is incredible, I’ve always had fantastic support,” said the British champ in the post-match interview. He admitted that this was the ground he played his last match back in 2019.

#Murray: “I feel I could have done better for sure, but competing today with a guy around 20-25 ATP makes me proud. Is not easy, I needed a lot of work and effort after all the issues I had I kept going”.#AO2022 pic.twitter.com/XyWl4pZTbF

— Lorenzo Ercoli (@Ladal17) January 18, 2022

Andy went on to add- ” Amazing to be back (from potential retirement of 2019), winning a five set battle like that, couldn’t ask for any more.”

Talking about his opponent Nikoloz Basilashvili, the Georgian player, the Murray stated- “He’s not the sort of guy you want to see next to your name in the draw too often,” in the context of having to defend and run around too much.

Also Read: Nick Kyrgios reveals Novak Djokovic’s message to him during the visa controversy

Andy Murray reacts to the ‘booing’ section of the spectators

During the match and the post- match interview, a section of the crowd was heard booing which was directed towards Andy Murray. Amidst the interview, he addressed the boo’s and calling it “painful stuff” including the people booing him. 

But later in the press conference, the British athlete spoke about his realization about how the booing was in fact cheer from the crowd. “Initially, I thought it was, because there were some people booing during my practice yesterday. I have no idea what for. But then after a few times it was like, ‘no, they’re doing that, I think it’s like “Siuu” or something that Ronaldo does when he scores. And, yeah, it was incredibly irritating,”– said the player smiling.

Apparently, it was “Siuuu” translates to “Yes!” in Spanish, and is used by popular footballer Cristiano Ronaldo to celebrate after he scores a goal.

Andy Murray is all set to play against Taro Daniel of Japan in his second round, scheduled to take place on 20th January.