Madrid Open 2022 - Andy Murray roars past Dominic Thiem to reach last 32 at Madrid Open

Andy Murray produced some of his best tennis since returning from injury to beat Dominc Thiem 6-3 6-4 and progress to the last 32 of the Madrid Open. Both players have struggled for form in the past 18 months, with each recovering from injuries and a loss of form and ranking points. Ad/> And while neither are at the height of their powers on a clay court, they looked desperate to impress a Madrid crowd and advance in the competition.

WimbledonMurray 'not supportive' of Wimbledon's ban on Russians and Belarusians11 HOURS AGO But Murray, a two-time winner in Madrid, was simply too powerful for Thiem, himself a two-time finalist in Madrid. Murray looked confident on serve and made the stronger start as an off-colour Thiem struggled to cope with the Brit's energy. And the Scot — no longer so light on his feet — impressed the Madrid crowd with a series of brilliant drop shots that confounded his opponent.

Thiem forced deuce at 2-2 on the Murray serve but the former world number one looked steely as he held serve. And then a brilliant return of serve and drop shot saw Murray force the first break point of the match, which he took gratefully as Thiem found the net. Another excellent drop shot and an ace saw Murray hold to love to consolidate the break, and after Thiem held, Murray had the chance to serve for the match.