Andy Murray’s back injury rehabilitation could boost his French Open campaign

A NDY MURRA Y’S gruelling back injury rehabilitation could boost his French Open campaign, according to coach Ivan Lendl.

Two-time grand slam winner Murray forced his way past back trouble to compete in the season-opening A ustralian Open last month.

Lendl said the 26-year-old Scot pushed hard for a return, condensing fitness and rehab work in the process.

Murray slipped out of the A ustralian Open at the quarter-finals, seen off by Roger Federer.

Eight-time grand slam champion Lendl believes Murray will not start to feel the benefit of that punishing schedule until at least next month.

By the time Roland Garros comes along in May, Lendl expects Murray to be in both top shape, and form.

“Our preparation forA ustralia was a little condensed after injuries,” said Lendl.

“He was a little fatigued because he had to do so many things, so many hours of fitness and tennis in a shorter period of time than usual but I don’t think that time is going to get lost, I think it’s going to start paying dividend around March.

“The schedule has been pretty much set, it’s pretty good leading up to the French.

“There’s time for A ndy to be sharp for the French and that’s what we’re working towards now of course.”

Murray helped Great Britain storm into the Davis Cup quarter-finals for the first time since 1986 with victory over the USA in California last week.

Lendl said the team element of Davis Cup action definitely hands the World No 6 a boost for his singles career.

“The Davis Cup is very well known for helping big players to transform their careers,” said Lendl.

“That’s not something thatA ndy needs at this point of course but A ndy really enjoys the Davis Cup camaraderie, being with the guys, and we see it at other events when the guys come to help him warm up.

“So he’s always looking forward to being around the guys, and that’s important.

“Once you’re comfortable like that, it makes for a better week, a pleasant time, and that will definitely benefit.”

Lendl will roll back the years in taking on A ustralian Pat Cash at London’s Earls Court on World Tennis Day, March 3.

A ndreA gassi and Pete Sampras will also lock horns in a billing of the game’s greats.

Murray has been confirmed as an entrant for next week’s A BN A mro World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam.

He has been given a wildcard for the event, which is also set to feature Juan Martin Del Potro and Tomas Berdych.

Picture: PA. Andy Murray will play in the Rotterdam tournament next week.