Andy Murray finally found the shortcut to success after six months of three-set struggles as he dispatched Radu Albot 6-4, 6-3 on Saturday at the Indian Wells Masters.
The Moldovan was a late lucky loser substitute for Spain’s Pablo Carreno Busta, who withdrew.
Three-time Grand Slam winner Murray last earned a two-set win in October, just under half a year ago; his 2023 has been notable, with victories in seven consecutive three-set thrillers.
Murray finished off a relatively pedestrian victory in just under one and three quarter-hours and was pleased to go through without extra drama.
But he admitted: “I felt very nervous today. we had prepared for Carreno Busta and had to change strategy to an opponent I’d not played before.
“But I had lots of opportunities, lots of break points (he converted two of 11). There was also a tricky wind at the start.
“I did well to get through.”
Murray finished with 16 winners while his opponent committed 35 unforced errors and never had a look at a break point.
Murray next plays fellow Brit Jack Draper, who beat compatriot Dan Evans 6-4, 6-2.
