Skip to main content

Andy Murray dominates Blaz Rola in record victory

Defending champion sees off Slovenian grass court novice in just 84 minutes

Andy Murray pulled off the most emphatic Wimbledon win of his career to race into the third round.

The defending champion was in sublime form on Court One, needing just an hour and 24 minutes to see off Slovenian Blaz Rola 6-1 6-1 6-0.

Murray said: “I played well. This is the first year he’s played on grass. He just came out of college and he’s broken into the top 100 so it was tough for him.

“He doesn’t have much grass-court experience but he’ll definitely keep improving because he’s got a good game.

“I just had to concentrate on my side of the net and I took care of my serve pretty well throughout the majority of the match.”

Murray had never previously dropped fewer than six games in a match at the All England Club, while it was his most one-sided result at a slam since losing just one game to Alberto Martin at the Australian Open in 2007.

The world number 92 was playing in only his third grand slam tournament and was no doubt disappointed not to have been given an outing on Centre Court.

Left-hander Rola had lost twice to British number three James Ward in the last month, at the French Open and Queen’s, so was not expected to trouble Murray.

And Rola’s nerves were obvious as he allowed Murray to break serve in the opening game, throwing in a double fault and a number of mishits.

The 23-year-old Slovenian only began to play on the tour full-time this season after going to university in the United States, as Murray was aware, and has risen up the rankings quickly.

Murray has a famously excellent record against left-handers — Rafael Nadal aside — which is a legacy of growing up playing against his brother Jamie and the 27-year-old was in complete control, showing off all facets of his game and giving Rola a thorough runaround.

Next up Murray faces a match against either 27th seed Roberto Bautista-Agut or Czech Jan Hernych on Friday.

Murray expected high marks from Mauresmo for his display.

“I’m sure she’ll be happy with it,” he said.

“We’ll have a chat about the match this afternoon and then rest up and get ready for the next round.

“It’s been a good start.”

OWNED BY OUR READERS

We're a reader-owned co-operative, which means you can become part of the paper too by buying shares in the People’s Press Printing Society.

 

 

Become a supporter

Fighting fund

You've Raised:£ 9,899
We need:£ 8,101
12 Days remaining
Donate today