Wawrinka eliminates Murray in French Open first round

Former French Open champion Stan Wawrinka defeated Andy Murray 6-4, 6-4, 6-2 in the first round at Roland Garros on Sunday, putting an end to the Briton's likely final appearance at the claycourt Grand Slam.

When the dust settled after their 23rd career meeting, the two shared a long embrace and a heartfelt conversation at the net, and Wawrinka praised Murray later in his press conference.

"We're getting closer to the end and we played so many times over the last 20 years," Wawrinka said.

"A lot of emotion. It was amazing to be in the Chatrier night session, something I never had a chance to do. He (Murray) is an amazing guy, amazing player, such a big fighter."

"We have a lot of respect for each other."

Swiss Wawrinka entered the match having won two of the duo's three major matches, including a draining five-setter in the 2017 semi-finals from which Murray's creaking hip never recovered, forcing him to have surgeries.

Four years ago, Wawrinka sent Murray packing in straight sets in the first round, and the 39-year-old Wawrinka started strong again by grabbing a break in the first game this time.

The 2015 champion closed out the first set with a couple of booming serves and then pounced in the third game of the second set with a string of heavy single-handed backhands from the baseline to put Murray under pressure.

The 37-year-old Briton, who has stated that he is unlikely to play beyond the summer, rode a wave of support at Philippe Chatrier Court and battled on, but was unable to prevent fellow three-time Grand Slam champion Wawrinka from going two sets up.

A medical timeout for Wawrinka's left calf issue slowed the start of the third set, but 2016 runner-up Murray's movement was also hampered by an apparent leg issue, allowing his opponent to run away with the match.

"I think I played my best match of the year," Wawrinka added. "I was feeling good. I was moving well. I was playing aggressive. I liked the conditions. I'm super happy with the performance and the level. It's really positive for me."

SportsLigue