MELBOURNE (Reuters) – Andy Murray’s long-awaited return to the Australian Open was delivered to a disappointing finish in the second round on Thursday when the three-times Grand Slam champion was ushered out of the match 6-4 6-4 6-4 by world quantity 120 Taro Daniel.
Perhaps nonetheless feeling the consequences of his gruelling five-set battle in the opening round on Tuesday, the 34-year-old Scot seemed out of types as his impressed Japanese opponent bounced alongside the baseline firing winner after winner.
Former world primary Murray confirmed not more than flashes of the sensible tennis that obtained him to 5 Australian Open finals as he made 34 unforced errors over the primary two units on John Cain Arena.
To the delight of the group, Murray edged forward at 2-0 in the third set however Daniel broke again instantly and 45 minutes later had booked his first Grand Slam third-round tie in opposition to Steve Johnson or Jannik Sinner.
(Reporting by Nick Mulvenney in Sydney, modifying by Angus MacSwan)
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