The reunion is off: Novak Djokovic won't face Andy Murray in potential final meeting at Geneva Open

ATP
Tuesday, 21 May 2024 at 14:30
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Novak Djokovic won't renew his rivalry with Andy Murray on Wednesday at the Geneva Open after the former World No.1 fell fairly quickly on Tuesday morning to Yannick Hanfmann being defeated in straight sets 7-5, 6-2.
Murray was a set down and trailing Hanfmann 4-1 in the second when a bizarre slew of weather conditions stopped the match in its tracks including white pollen that looked like snow which prompted Murray to say: "It's like it's snowing here."
Murray perhaps could've returned and found his way back into the tie. But in reality, he was defeated fairly comfortably on return as the German served it out. It is a disappointing return for the Brit who helped use Geneva as a way to get ready for the French Open next week.
He also played Bordeaux last week but was quite easily defeated by Gregoire Barrere so perhaps the writing was on the wall. But he will not now look ahead to a 37th career contest with Djokovic which could have been for the last time.
Perhaps too given the form of Murray, it also represents a more difficult task for Djokovic when he does return to the court tomorrow against a player who is in form and playing with no fear against a player desperately needing matches. So while we won't get Murray facing Djokovic, it will likely be a more closely fought clash. Now the onus for Murray will turn to putting on a good show in what will likely be his final French Open.
But perhaps this form wasn't unexpected given that he has just got back from serious ankle injury and also has not played clay in recent years due to the potential toll on his body. He has instead decided to head straight onto the grass. But he has decided to play it this year with the Olympic Games likely acting as a farewell. He will play doubles with Dan Evans in Paris and will of course play singles as he qualifies. But the main part of it will be to get ready for a gold medal hunt. So perhaps all isn't lost for Murray.

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