Andy Murray made a triumphant return to the Australian Open as he battled his way to a five-set victory Down Under against Nikoloz Basilashvili.
The super Scot came through a gruelling first round tie against the Georgian before winning 6-1 6-1 3-6 6-4 6-7 (5-7) 6-4.
On the very stage where he effectively announced his retirement three years ago, the marathon win is yet another sign of the 34-year-old’s amazing recovery.
It is remarkable that Murray is out on court competing at the top level but he keeps defying the odds and now faces Japanese qualifier Taro Daniel.
He said: "On his aims for the tournament he said: "Hopefully keep improving - there are things in my game I could do better.
"I would like to have a deep run. It's something I haven't had since I came back from injury - and I hope I can do it in this tournament."
"Last year we were playing with no fans in stadiums. We train and practise to allow us to play in atmospheres like this and entertain you guys, I'm so happy."
But he was made to work as his fans were put through the wringer in a roller-coaster match before his trademark guts and determination saw him emerge victorious.
Murray had beaten Basilashvili when they met at the Sydney International last week but this was him back on the big stage.
It was an emotional occasion as back in 2019 Murray was on the wrong side of a five-set epic in the Melbourne Arena.
He lost to Spaniard Robert Bautista Agut and at the end it looked as if his time at the top level might be up, saying “he would "do everything he could to see you again” as he went for hip surgery.
Yet here he was back winning again and after reaching the final in Sydney last week his march continues Down Under.
