Murray’s scrawled message on the tv digital camera – which is customary for the winner – indicated his satisfaction at extending what is anticipated to be the two-time champion’s ultimate look in Miami.
The previous world primary, who turns 37 in Might, not too long ago mentioned he doesn’t “plan on enjoying a lot previous the summer time” when pressed about his retirement plans.
Murray has been candid about his struggles in current months and heading to a different defeat in opposition to former world quantity six Berrettini, who was enjoying his first ATP Tour match in nearly seven months.
Berrettini, whose personal profession has been stalled by a succession of long-term accidents, demonstrated he has not misplaced his robust service recreation by touchdown 78% of his typically-hefty first serves in a powerful first set.
Three-time main champion Murray, hardly ever one to roll over, improved significantly within the second set and turned the match round.
Extra proactive within the factors and making fewer unforced errors, the Scot was rewarded by taking his third break level of the sport for a 4-2 lead.
Then got here a dramatic and regarding second when Berrettini, serving to remain within the set at 5-2, wobbled as he was getting ready to play.
The 27-year-old wanted therapy from a physician for dizziness earlier than having the ability to proceed, but additionally took a protracted break off the court docket earlier than the deciding set.
With Berrettini nonetheless trying uncomfortable, Murray maintained his depth to interrupt on the fourth time of asking in a 12-minute opening recreation and it was sufficient to safe a much-needed success.
His celebration was respectfully reserved given the circumstances and he made positive his first act was to ask Berrettini how he felt after they shook palms on the web.
