3 Jul 2012

Andy Murray powers into Wimbledon quarter-finals

Andy Murray beats the rain and Marin Cilic to book his place in the quarter-finals of Wimbledon, but does the British number one have the “sense of urgency” to take him all the way to the final?

Andy Murray powers into Wimbledon quarter-finals. (Reuters)

Despite the threat of more rain, Murray was able to swiftly convert his strong overnight position into a straight sets victory, 7-5 6-2 6-3, setting up a last-eight meeting with David Ferrer.

He wrapped up the match after two hours and 10 minutes, ending Cilic’s eight-match winning streak on grass.

The Briton gave his now-trademark gesture, pointing at the sky – which he has so far refused to explain – after winning the match.

His absence from Centre Court had caused some controversy on Monday but the 25-year-old did not feel he had been unfairly treated.

He said: “I don’t care which court I play on. It makes no difference. Any player would rather play on centre because it’s got the roof so you’ll get your match in.

“But I don’t deserve to play every match on centre, I just wish the weather was a bit better.”

Murray has been aided by a sense of urgency throughout Wimbledon. Nima Naderi

Murray also revealed he had relaxed during the rain delays by listening to Ed Sheeran and playing PlayStation with a friend last night to take his mind off the match.

Sense of urgency

Blogger Nima Naderi, who writes for Tennis Connected, reckons Murray’s momentum, and Nadal’s early exit, could see him get to the final.

“In terms of Murray’s chances at Wimbledon this year, I’d say that on paper he’s got a great opportunity to reach the finals, with Nadal out of the way, but he’ll certainly need to step it up,” he said.

“Djokovic and Federer are still in the draw and will remain the favorites based on their past performances.

“But I also believe Murray has been aided by a sense of urgency throughout Wimbledon; having to beat the clock against Baghdatis in the third-round and then having to get by Cilic in a two day, rain delayed match.”