When Andy Murray last faced Grigor Dimitrov, he emerged victorious in the 2016 China Open final. Now, in the 2023 US Open held at Flushing Meadows, New York from August 28 to September 10, they’re geared up to clash once again in round two.
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At 36, Murray believes that he’s wielding his racket better than he has since his hip surgery that rekindled his career. He’s one of the six British talents looking to advance to the third round this coming Thursday. Fellow Brits Cameron Norrie, Dan Evans, Jack Draper, Katie Boulter, and Jodie Burrage will also be competing on the tournament’s fourth day.
Murray’s elated, stating, “I’m sitting at my best ranking (37) since the surgeons turned me into the Bionic Man with that metal hip of mine.” He acknowledges that his journey back has been a roller coaster but feels this is the finest he’s played since 2017.
It’s worth noting that the Scottish tennis ace hasn’t squared off against Dimitrov, the 19th seed, since their 2016 encounter. Murray has bested the Bulgarian in eight of their 11 past showdowns but lost when it mattered most—during the Wimbledon quarter-finals in 2014.
Interestingly, Dimitrov has enlisted the aid of two coaches who have prior experience training Murray—Jamie Delgado of Britain and Dani Vallverdu of Venezuela. In response, Murray quipped, “I’ve got a decent track record against my former coaches. Sure, having two guys who’ve been in my corner could give him an edge, but only time will tell.”
The face-off between Murray and Dimitrov will kick off Thursday’s schedule at Arthur Ashe Stadium at 17:00 BST.
The Quest for Norrie’s First Grand Slam
British numero uno Cameron Norrie has been sparring with none other than defending champion Carlos Alcaraz, despite a lackluster 2023 season. The two might meet in the round of 16, provided they clear two more matches.
Norrie will next face Taiwanese qualifier Hsu Yu-hsiou, who is ranked 237th in the world. “I relish the opportunity to spar with the big names like Carlos,” said Norrie. “Their energy is contagious.”
Alcaraz is set to play against South Africa’s Lloyd Harris later that night, with the victor scheduled to go up against either British number two Evans or Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp in the third round.
Jack Draper, fresh off recovering from a shoulder injury that had him benched for the French Open and Wimbledon, will have his work cut out for him against 17th seed Hubert Hurkacz of Poland. But he finds inspiration in the success of his fellow countrymen. “Seeing other Brits succeed is the kind of morale boost we all need,” Draper noted.
British Women Keep the Flag Flying High
With Lily Mizayaki’s defeat at the hands of Belinda Bencic, Britain’s hopes in the women’s singles now rest on Jodie Burrage and Katie Boulter. Burrage, in the aftermath of her first-round win, has been granted a spot on one of the show courts, Louis Armstrong Stadium, to take on world number two Aryna Sabalenka.
“It’s a game-changer of a match for me,” said Burrage. “If you told me a couple of years ago, when I was getting my third ankle surgery, that I’d be winning US Open matches and breaking into the top 100, I would have told you you’re living in a fantasy.”
Boulter, meanwhile, faces a less daunting opponent in China’s Wang Yafan, who stunned seventh seed Caroline Garcia in the opening round.
Keep your eyes peeled and your notifications on for live scores, results, and play orders. Because when it comes to the US Open, you just never know what might happen next.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about US Open 2023
What is the main focus of the article?
The article primarily focuses on the 2023 US Open, with an emphasis on British players, particularly Andy Murray. It discusses Murray’s upcoming match with Grigor Dimitrov and his form since his career-saving hip surgery.
Who are the British players participating in the 2023 US Open?
The British players featured in the article are Andy Murray, Cameron Norrie, Dan Evans, Jack Draper, Katie Boulter, and Jodie Burrage.
When and where is the US Open 2023 taking place?
The US Open 2023 is being held at Flushing Meadows, New York, from August 28 to September 10.
What did Andy Murray say about his current form?
Andy Murray stated that he is playing his best tennis since his hip operation. He is currently at his highest ranking (37) since the surgery and feels this is the best he’s played since 2017.
What interesting twist is there regarding Grigor Dimitrov’s coaches?
Grigor Dimitrov has enlisted two coaches, Jamie Delgado and Dani Vallverdu, who have previously worked with Andy Murray.
Who is Cameron Norrie practicing with?
Cameron Norrie has been practicing with the defending champion Carlos Alcaraz.
What is special about Jodie Burrage’s upcoming match?
Jodie Burrage will be playing against world number two Aryna Sabalenka on one of the show courts, Louis Armstrong Stadium.
Who are the remaining British women in the singles draw?
The remaining British women in the singles draw are Katie Boulter and Jodie Burrage.
What time does the match between Andy Murray and Grigor Dimitrov start?
The match is scheduled to begin at 17:00 BST and will be the opening action on Arthur Ashe Stadium for that day.
How is the 2023 season going for Cameron Norrie so far?
The 2023 season has been lackluster for Cameron Norrie, as he has not made it past the third round in any Grand Slam this year.
More about US Open 2023
- US Open Official Website
- Andy Murray’s Career Stats
- Grigor Dimitrov’s Profile
- BBC Radio 5 Live
- British Tennis News
- Cameron Norrie’s 2023 Season Overview
- Arthur Ashe Stadium Details
- Carlos Alcaraz’s Career Highlights
- WTA Player Rankings
- Flushing Meadows, New York
10 comments
Katie Boulter has a kinder draw huh. Sounds like someone upstairs is a fan. Or maybe she’s just that good 😉
Wow, didn’t know that Arthur Ashe Stadium match is kickin off at 5. gotta plan my errands accordingly!
I’m gettin some Rocky vibes from Jodie Burrage. Injuries, setbacks but still fighting. Way to go, girl.
A blast from the past with Murray and Dimitrov. Feels like 2014 Wimbledon all over again, but hopefully with a different ending this time for Murray!
Man, I’m so pumped for Murray vs Dimitrov. Murray says he’s in form? Guess we’ll see soon. Honestly can’t wait!
Dimitrov vs Murray’s gonna be lit, guys. Bring popcorn. And maybe some tissues, depending on which side you’re on.
Cameron Norrie practising with Alcaraz, huh? That’s like sparring with Iron Man to prep for a local robotics comp.
Murray at his highest rank since the hip thing, eh? The old dog’s still got some tricks up his sleeve.
Six brits aiming for round 3? Now that’s what I’m talking bout. Tea and tennis anyone?
Is it just me or does Dimitrov having Murray’s old coaches feel like some kinda heist movie plot? can’t wait to see how this one plays out.