Andy Murray says he's aiming for further improvement as the Australian Open continues.
The Scot secured his first win at the tournament since 2019 in a first-round victory over Georgian 21st seed Nikoloz Basilashvili.
Murray had to work hard to get the win, clinching a final set decider 6-4 to progress to the second round.
Andy loves the fans. The fans love Andy ❤️ @andy_murray · #AusOpen · #AO2022 pic.twitter.com/0LdJPBxBeF
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 18, 2022
"It was amazing," Murray said speaking on court after the match.
"It has been a tough three or four years.
"I've put in a lot of work to get back here. I have played on this court many times and the atmosphere is incredible. I have always had fantastic support.
"This is where I thought I had potentially played my last match three years ago but it is amazing to be back, winning a five-set battle like that. I couldn't ask for any more."
Murray - who appeared resigned to retirement due to hip trouble - underwent surgery in 2019 and has since returned to action.
After emerging from this encounter, he says he's determined to progress further in the tournament.
"I will hopefully keep improving. There are things in my game I can definitely do better.
"I would love to have a deep run here, if possible. It is something I have not had in one of the slams since I came back from injury and it is something that is motivating me.
"I have played some of my best tennis here over the years. I feel comfortable here and I hope I can do it here this tournament."
Murray plays Japan's Taro Daniel in the second round.
Daniel - who was born in New York - is ranked at 120 in the world.
Elsewhere in Melbourne, home favourite Nick Kyrgios got the better of Liam Broady in straight sets.
In the women's singles, second seed Aryna Sabalenka came from a set down to beat Storm Sanders 2-1.
Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
