STARNBERG, September 8, 2020 (Guest post)

The US Open stands as a high-profile Grand Slam event. Big wins draw tremendously positive news coverage, while honorable losses may even receive uplifting reports. When a player suffers a tremendous defeat, the news reports may prove decidedly unflattering. Andy Murray suffered a conclusive loss at the US Open, and now the tennis pro wants to bounce back. Murray lost to a top tennis player, Félix Auger-Aliassime. Losses remain part of the tennis game, but this particular defeat had to sting for Murray. He suffered a straight-sets defeat, his first at a grand slam tournament since he finished runner-up to Novak Djokovic at the 2016 Australian Open. Murray acknowledged the loss upset him somewhat. However, Murray has no intention of dwelling on the loss.

Dwelling vs. Re-Examining

Murray pointed out he wants to do better at the French Open. One key to improving his chances involves looking at what went wrong and making improvements. Anyone who plays tennis knows wins and losses go together, just like when you play roulette. That said, a tennis player could defeat him or herself when lacking the appropriate mental edge or preparation. Murray noted he wanted to improve himself “physically” for the next event. He did not fully explain what he meant, but many can speculate about physical improvements. Physical conditioning plays a role in whether a tennis player’s performance reaches peak performance. A lack of cardio training or functional strength may undermine performance. Even someone boasting of excellent physical condition, however, might

fall short on the tennis court. Physical performance could also involve issues with timing. Maybe a player would benefit from training exercises designed to support explosive movement burst. Getting to the ball and returning it with the perfect swing requires a mix of both explosiveness and timing. The right training could potentially improve such attributes. Overtraining does present risks, too. An athlete who pushes him or herself too hard in training might end up “worn out” when competition day arrives. Putting the body through too much physical stress could hamper performance, as well.

Andy Murray’s Comeback Plans

Andy Murray needs to deal with an issue other players do not: Murray underwent hip resurfacing surgery in early 2019. Recovering from hip problems could add more complications to a player’s performance. Murray acknowledges winning another grand slam title may prove challenging due to his hip issues. Murray suggests he’s a “realist” about things, and he understands there may be some issues, but he won’t let it get him down. Murray likely understands he must deal with some nagging hip-related concerns, but he pushes forward with a willingness to do his best. Auger-Aliassime defeated Murray 6-2, 6-3, and 6-4. The decisive victory on such a grand stage may catapult Auger-Aliassime to even greater notoriety. Murray’s star has not entirely faded, as he has a chance at redemption. The French Open could be the event that launches Murray’s comeback. The star will surely train hard to avoid a loss and another straight-sets defeat. Even if Murrary loses, don’t count him out. He’s skilled at comebacks.