Rusedski to focus on grass

Greg Rusedski was not ruling out one last return to the clay courts he hates, but after being blown out of the French Open in the first round by a combination of a squally gale and a clay specialist in Chile’s Paul Capdeville, Rusedski had just one thing on his mind: the green, grass of home.

Rusedski’s short current reign as British number one will almost certainly end if Andy Murray beats French teenager Gael Monfils on the showpiece Philippe Chatrier court today.

For Rusedski, however, that means little compared to competing well again at the age of 32 when he takes his serve-and-volley game to Queen’s, Nottingham and Wimbledon.

Rusedski said: “I don’t know if that’s my last tango in Paris but it’s getting closer, definitely. I didn’t serve well but I feel like I’m striking the ball well and I’m getting that confidence. The last two sets I felt I played some good tennis. Hopefully I can continue to play like that and turn the corner.

“I’ll be ready for the grass-court season where I can play my natural game. I’m looking forward to that.”