Murray wins European Open, first singles since return from surgery

Former world number one Andy Murray was left teary-eyed after defeating Stan Wawrinka to clinch the European Open on Sunday (October 20), his first singles title since returning from career-saving hip surgery in January.

The 32-year-old Briton said during the post-match interview, “It means a lot. The last few years have been extremely difficult. Me and Stan have had a lot of injury problems in the last couple of years. Amazing to be back playing against him in a final like that.”

The tears flowed as Murray sat in his courtside chair after defeating Wawrinka 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 in Antwerp which is his first title since February 2017.

Also read: Murray reaches first final since March 2017, to face Stan Wawrinka

“I think it was a great match. Stan was playing unbelievable – hitting winners from all over the court. I just managed to hang in a bit at the end of the second set and the third set was extremely close again. Amazing. I didn’t expect to be in this position at all so I’m very happy,” he said.

Murray won his most recent 45th career title in March 2017 and is now ranked at 243. He is now playing for the fourth successive week on tour having only returned to singles at Cincinnati in August.

“This is one of the biggest wins I’ve had, after everything,” Murray said.

“I’m really proud of the win and I’ve enjoyed my time here,” he concluded.