Andy Murray in semi-final heartbreak
27/01/2012
Andy Murray came close to reaching his third successive Australian Open final, before finally being edged out by world number one Novak Djokovic in a five-set epic.
The Serb had to save three break points on his own serve in the deciding set that would have left the Scot serving for the match, but held on and then broke to reach the final against Rafael Nadal.
While the result was a fresh disappointment for Murray, the fact he came so close may encourage fans enjoying Wimbledon hospitality this summer that a Grand Slam title may not be far off.
The match was a far cry from last year's final, in which Djokovic easily won in five sets.
And the reigning champion acknowledged it was "one of the best matches I have played".
Speaking after the match in the press conference, Murray paid tribute to the impact new coach Ivan Lendl has already made on his game.
"I want to try and repay the sort of faith that he's shown in me by coming to work with me," he stated.
By Sam Smith
