Aussie Open: Argentine Tomas Martin sends Andy Murray Packing

It was a case of welcome and good bye for five-time finalist Andy Murray after he was sent crashing by Argentine Tomas Martin Etcjeverry in the first round on Monday.

Andy Murray, 36, who  had hinted before now that this may be his last Australian Open, gave it his all in a 61-minute first set, but the 30th seed Etcheverry eventually broke him down to win 6-4, 6-2, 6-2.

Murray’s defeat denied his admirers the opportunity of seeing him clash with the current champion, Novak Djokovic, in the third round.

READ ALSO Djokovic survives round scare before advancing at Aussie Open

Before taking on Djokovic, Etcheverry, who made it to the quarterfinals of the French Open in 2023, must beat Frenchman Gael Monfils.

After beating Andy Murray in the opening round of the Australian Open, Etcheverry said: “Very tough for me playing with a legend like Andy.

“He is one of my idols, but today I played incredible. I just tried to play my game and focus on my points.”

Recall that Murray declared in Brisbane that if the upcoming 12 months fail to favour him, he would call it quits on his career. Murray had a terrible record going into 2023—he had only won once in his previous four events.

READ ALSO Andy Murray begins Wimbledon build-up with strong win

The British athlete, who competed with some of the best tennis players of all time, including retired Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal who is battling with fitness issues, is nearing the end of a trophy-filled career. He won Wimbledon in 2013 and 2016 in addition to winning the US Open in 2012.