Why Italian Open and French Open could be key for Andy Murray's hopes of Wimbledon seeding spot

Of the 46 titles he has won in his career to date, the second-tier ATP Challenger event won in Aix-en-Provence last weekend is unlikely to rank near the top for Andy Murray in terms of prestige. But in terms of how the remainder of his 2023 season pans out, it could be an absolutely vital one. Ad Murray appeared to be in a tough spot before playing the tournament, unsure whether to continue to commit to playing on clay following first-round losses in Monte Carlo and Madrid, and seemingly growing more frustrated in every match at not producing the same level he did during an encouraging start to the year.

TennisMurray wins first title since 2019 in return to form ahead of French Open07/05/2023 AT 15:25 Had Murray lost early in Aix-en-Provence it does not seem unthinkable that he might have said ‘that’s that’ for his 2023 clay season. Instead he now has a far more positive outlook. After coming through a strong draw, which included beating Australian Open semi-finalist Tommy Paul in the final, Murray is up to No.

42 in the rankings, the highest he has been since May 2019. It was Murray’s first title at any level since Antwerp in 2019, and his first clay title since he won the Masters 1000 event in Rome in 2016. It gives Murray momentum heading into the two biggest events left on the clay schedule: the Italian Open and French Open.

«This last year, 18 months has been a bit of struggle with my game,» Murray said after winning the title in France. How Alcaraz is poised to get to No. 1 in Rome Murray to face Fognini in Rome opener «But (my team) have been there supporting me and working with me to try and get better.