(Reuters) – Former champion Andy Murray and big-serving American John Isner bowed out of the U.S. Open yesterday as second seed Aryna Sabalenka cruised into the third round.
Briton Murray, once spoken of in the same breath as tennis’ “Big Three”, has mounted a career comeback of sorts in 2023 but could not match the firepower of 19th seed Grigor Dimitrov under blistering sun on Arthur Ashe Stadium.
“I’m aware what I’m doing, it’s unbelievably challenging to play at the highest level as I am now. And yeah, some days it’s harder than others,” Murray said.
“Ultimately these are the events that you want to play your best tennis in, and create more great moments and I didn’t do that this year.”
Isner, 38, won the longest professional tennis match in history against Frenchman Nicolas Mahut at Wimbledon in 2010, which lasted 11 hours and 5 minutes and took place over three days.
“This is why I worked as hard as I have my whole life to play in atmospheres like this and of course I may not win them all as we know, just like today,” he said. He had announced his intention to retire after the tournament but did not get the hero’s send-off he had hoped for as compatriot Michael Mmoh rallied from two sets down to beat him.
Isner may have called time on his singles career but will get another chance in the spotlight in the doubles with compatriot Jack Sock. It was a routine day at the office for Sabalenka, who is looking to add another title to her name after collecting her maiden major prize at the Australian Open.
The Belarusian fired off 28 winners to take down Britain’s Jodie Burrage 6-3 6-2 and next faces France’s Clara Burel.
