Murray eases through in New York

Andy Murray opened his US Open campaign with a solid victory over the inconsistent Ernests Gulbis at Flushing Meadows.

The world number two won his opening-round match in straight sets under the lights at Arthur Ashe Stadium, beating Latvia’s Gulbis 7-5 6-3 7-5 in two hours and 17 minutes.

Murray had been given the primetime spot for American television with a night match and he went into the match against the Latvian, ranked 95 in the world, eager to live up to his top billing.

He achieved that, although Gulbis helped the Scot’s cause with an erratic performance but Murray was satisfied with his night’s work as he set up a second-round match with Chile’s world number 87 Paul Capdeville.

“I used to train with (Capdeville) in Barcelona when I was 16, 17,” Murray said of his next opponent, adding: “I know him pretty well, he won comfortably today so it’s going to be a tough match but I played well tonight.

“I love these matches, I always wanted to play one since I was a boy, I’ve always had good support here so I’ll try and keep it going.”