Diego Schwartzman Downs Former Champion Andy Murray at ATP Antwerp 2021

After a challenging first-round exit at US Open, Andy Murray has been playing on the tour for quite a while. Recently, the three-time Grand Slam champion is competing at the ATP Antwerp Open. In the round of 32, Murray showed absolute resilience to overcome the American, Frances Tiafoe in an exciting three-set match.

However, in his next match against Diego Schwartzman, the Brit lost in straight sets 6-4, 7-6(8-6). Schwazrtman dominated against Murray right from the start of the match. As a result, Murray’s average performance on the tour continues.

Andy Murray eliminated at European Open

Andy Murray entered the European Open after tumbling against Alexander Zverev in the third round of Indian Wells. In his first round, Murray thrashed Tiafoe in three sets. Following his victory, he was to face the Argentinian, Diego Schwartzman. Despite hitting 8 aces and winning breakpoints, Murray was incapable of getting past Schwartzman. Though Murray is participating in every competition lately, he is not able to display his ace game.

Oct 12, 2021; Indian Wells, CA, USA; Andy Murray (GBR) reacts after missing a shot against Alexander Zverev (GER) during a third round match in the BNP Paribas Open at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

Throughout the match, Schwartzman looked in total control of the match. Although trailing behind in the first set, the Argentinian kept his composure to clinch the first set as well as the second. The final score recorded was 6-4, 7-6(8-6).

Diego Schwartzman wanted to face Murray since 2019

In a video shared by the European Open just ahead of their match, Diego Schwartzman talked about his long-lasting dream of facing Andy Murray. In January 2019, the former World No. 1 announced that he’ll be possibly retiring after the Wimbledon championships. When asked about whom he would love to face from the retired players, Schwarztamn picked the Brit.

Sep 1, 2021; Flushing, NY, USA; Diego Schwartzman of Argentina wins the first set in a tie break against Kevin Anderson of South Africa on day three of the 2021 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Danielle Parhizkaran-USA TODAY Sports

He stated, “I’m not sure about Andy Murray if he’s going to play just the last match at Wimbledon or not. But I didn’t play against him so I want to play against him one time maybe before, we hope before the retirement.”

@dieschwartzman wish from February 2019 will come true today.

He’s finally playing @andy_murray (Not Before 6.30 pm)! #EuropeanOpen

@TennisTV pic.twitter.com/OmvlWNtTTB

— European Open (@EuroTennisOpen) October 21, 2021

As Schwartzman played Murray at European Open, his long-lasting dream must have been fulfilled. Moreover, he also registered a straight-set victory against the former World No. 1 which would have definitely boosted up his confidence ahead of his final 8 contest.

ALSO READ: “Tennis Is Still My Passion”: Andy Murray Reveals Motivation to Play the Sport

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