GENEVA (AP) — Needing a win to face Novak Djokovic next at the Geneva Open, Andy Murray was saved by a heavy rainstorm when he trailed unseeded Yannick Hanfmann 7-5, 4-1 in a first-round match on Monday.
Murray and top-ranked Djokovic both got wild cards to enter the last clay-court event to prepare for the French Open, and were drawn to meet in the second round. They have not faced each other on tour since February 2017.
Ranked No. 75, Murray began to struggle in his first tour match in two months when heavy rain and strong winds swept across the stadium court in a lakeside park.
The 85th-ranked Hanfmann broke Murray’s service twice in a row to lead 4-1 with his service game to come when play was suspended.
In the opening set, Murray found some big serves to get out of trouble in the ninth game when he saved two break points.
It was just a respite, as Murray was broken to love in his next service game, sealed by a Hanfmann forehand service return winner.
What's next for Iran after death of its president in crash?
Your guide to a year in Greece: Time your trip to get the best of the country's historic sites
HKFP Lens: Artist displays 'overlapping memories' of Hong Kong and UK on film
Now THAT'S a holiday photo album: Couple who sold everything they own to travel share 15 jaw
What's next for Iran after death of its president in crash?
I do one of the world's most dangerous jobs
Body removed after violent attack at Auckland sushi shop
Scott Morrison and Joe Biden to join summit with key Asia
What's next for Iran after death of its president in crash?
Alec Baldwin pleads not guilty to Rust shooting charge
Philippines blames China for loss of giant clams in disputed shoal and urges environmental inquiry
How to get around the great Easter flight rip