Andy Murray believes Rafael Nadal can go all the way at Roland Garros
Wednesday 13 May 2015 20:21, UK
Andy Murray insists it would be a mistake to write off Rafael Nadal as a clay court force and expects the Spaniard to still be favourite for a 10th French Open.
World No 3 Murray stunned Nadal 6-3 6-2 to win the Madrid Open on Sunday, his first Masters title on clay and a second clay crown in a week.
It was also the Scot's first victory over the Spaniard on clay in seven attempts, but he believes Nadal will still be the man to beat come Roland Garros at the end of the month.
"I think there were periods of the match where he played like he usually does, but there were also periods where he made more mistakes," Murray said.
"On that court (in Paris) he has only ever lost one match, so when the French Open comes round he'll be one of the favourites. It is maybe closer than it's been in previous years, but I wouldn't write him off."
Trending
- Transfer Centre LIVE! 'Only a matter of time before Trent leaves for Madrid'
- Liverpool reject approach for Alexander-Arnold from Real Madrid
- Van Gerwen slams Wright: 'He talks so much nonsense'
- Papers: Zirkzee eyed by Juventus, Trippier set for Toon exit
- Why have so many of the Golden Generation struggled in management?
- World Darts Championship schedule: Littler vs Aspinall on New Year's Day
- Nev and Carra's teams of the season so far and 2025 predictions
- Arteta on title bid: If Liverpool slip, we'll be there
- Take the Sky Sports Football Quiz of the Year!
- West Ham latest: Antonio leaves hospital: I'll be back soon
"He showed enough this week to suggest that with two good weeks of work and good results in Rome (at next week's Italian Open), he can go all the way at Roland Garros."
Sunday's defeat means Nadal will drop to seventh in the latest world rankings, the first time he has been out of the top five in 10 years.
The 14-time Grand Slam champion is also defending 600 ranking points in Rome having made last year's final.
Don't miss all the action from Rome Masters, live on Sky Sports 3 from 10am on Monday 11 May.