DeGale looking forward to quiet life
MIKURU SUZUKI created history when she became the first Japanese player to win a darts World Championship as she beat England’s Lorraine Winstanley
3-0 in the women’s final.
Suzuki triumphed on double top and had an average of 90.
She said: “I just wanted to play my best game.” CAMERON NORRIE was beaten by Tennys Sandgren in his first ATP Tour final at the ASB Classic in Auckland.
The 23-year-old Brit hoped to win his maiden title in the city where he grew up but American Sandgren was too strong, winning 6-4 6-2.
Norrie will play Taylor Fritz at the Australian Open tomorrow.
RAnd the Spanish world No23 says he will draw on his Davis Cup experience to help overcome Murray in their first round clash at the Australian Open.
Former world No1 Murray is hugely popular Down Under after reaching the final here five times – and losing each time.
But Bautista Agut said:
“I’m used to it, I have played Davis Cup matches and many situations like this.
“There will be a lot of interest from all the press. Andy is one of the best tennis players in history.
“But tomorrow I will be in a competition, to win my match and try everything to get the win.”
The Spaniard prepared for the first Grand Slam of the season by beating world No1 Novak Djokovic on his way to winning the Qatar Open last week.
He said: “Doha is one of the best tournaments I have played from the first match until the last one. It has given me a lot of confidence.”
Murray has predicted his own defeat in the first round but insisted he will try to “enjoy” perhaps his final ever match.
But he admitted he accepts his 13th appearance here will not last long.
“It will be tough walking out for JAMES DEGALE wants to become the forgotten man of boxing when he finally hangs up his gloves.
The two-time world supermiddleweight champion faces Chris Eubank Jr next month.
And he reckons he could fight twice more in 2019 – with a long-awaited rematch against old foe George Groves finally on the cards.
But, despite his determination to be busy this year, the 32-year-old knows he is in the twilight of his career. He said: “It’s getting to the stage that I’m fed up of getting punched in my head.
“People don’t understand the hard work, sacrifices, dedication, the running, the early mornings, the preparation, everything. It’s draining.
“I don’t want anyone to think the hunger isn’t there, it is. I can’t wait to fight now. But I can see the finishing line, though. After boxing, I want people to forget me. I want to live my life and do my own thing.”
DeGale gave up the IBF belt he won back from Caleb Truax last year to set up the clash with Eubank. If he wins this fight, then Groves is his most likely next opponent.