Murray is in no hurry to go to the States
Jamie says strict quarantine rules may KO his New York chances
JAMIE MURRAY will skip the US Open next month unless strict American quarantine rules are relaxed.
The Davis Cup legend has revealed he’s organising a Ryder Cup-style mixed team event for British stars – including his brother Andy and Jo Konta - later this month.
But the doubles specialist is still uncertain about his plans when the ATP Tour returns next month with a three-tournament swing in the USA followed by three big clay court events – including the French Open – back in Europe.
Sports stars can obtain visas to enter the USA but they currently have to spend two weeks in quarantine on arrival.
Murray insisted if he also had to spend another fortnight in self-isolation on his return to Europe, he would not go. He said: “Truthfully, it’s difficult for me to say if I will go to the US Open.
“A lot will depend on what you can do once you finish the tournament in terms of getting to Europe.
“It seems they have regressed in the States and there are a lot more cases coming up again.
“If they are incredibly strict with that and everyone has to do it, then if you go to play the US Open and you cannot play in Madrid or Rome, you will have no preparation to play the French Open.
“I’d imagine for the ATP it would be very difficult to support the US Open going ahead if the draw has to quarantine coming back to Europe where they have two Masters Series and another Grand Slam.
“If I have the option of playing one Masters Series and one Grand Slam – or two Masters Series and one Grand Slam because of quarantines – then I will choose two Masters Series and one Grand Slam.
“Also, it seems like a less stressful option right now but things can change.
“The US Open is still essentially seven-eight weeks away. I’d imagine the next few weeks would be pretty interesting.”
Murray organised the Battle of the Brits at the National Tennis Centre last month and now wants to stage a team event from July 27 to August 2 with 10-12 players on each side with singles, doubles and mixed doubles.
He said: “Andy and Jo? They both said they like the idea and intend to play as long as fitness is there. I need our top players to play to put these events on.”