Murray wins five-set early morning epic at Australian Open

Friday, 20 January 2023 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Andy Murray

MELBOURNE, AFP: Veteran Andy Murray roared back in a five-set epic which ended past 4:00am to reach the Australian Open third round with a remarkable victory over home hope Thanasi Kokkinakis early Friday.

In front of a raucous but weary Margaret Court Arena in Melbourne, the Briton finally prevailed 4-6, 6-7 (4/7), 7-6 (7/5), 6-3, 7-5.

At five hours and 45 minutes it was the longest match in Murray’s storied career.

The 35-year-old former world number one will play 24th seed Roberto Bautista Agut of Spain in round three.

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