Murray and Broady show true grit to win doubles tie in Rome

Andy Murray made a winning return to court with victory in his opening doubles match at the Italian Open.

The Scot, in partnership with Liam Broady, came from behind to beat Australian pair Max Purcell and Luke Saville 5-7 7-6 (5) 10-6 in a tight affair in Rome that lasted two hours.

Three-time grand slam winner Murray is stepping up his preparations for a potential singles comeback in either Geneva or Lyon next week.

The Scot has been recovering from a groin injury suffered in March.

He had travelled to Italy for a week of practice alongside some leading players.

However, he ended up in the doubles draw when he and Broady accepted a spot as alternates following the withdrawal of Hubert Hurkacz and Felix Auger-Aliassime.

Meanwhile, five-time Wimbledon champion Venus Williams and British number one Johanna Konta are set to headline this summer’s Nottingham Open line-up, depending on how they fare at the French Open.

The WTA Tour event

kicks off the grass-court season from June 5-13 at the Nottingham Tennis Centre, returning to the calendar after last year’s cancellation due to coronavirus.

However, due to the pandemic, this summer’s French Open has been put back a week, meaning it will still be in action when the Nottingham tournament is due to take place.

If any player is still involved at Roland Garros they will be forced to withdraw from the Nottingham Open.

Donna Vekic, Elena Rybakina and Alison Riske are among other players on the entry list.

Andy Murray.