Tennis: Murray makes a date with Mayer in Spain

Published on Wednesday 4 November 2009 08:55

ANDY MURRAY breezed through his first match for six weeks as he began his Valencia Open campaign.

The world tennis No.4 beat Spaniard Daniel Gimeno-Traver 6-3, 6-1, giving an opponent who was handed a wild card into the tournament no hope of an upset.

Now Murray has a day to prepare for his second-round clash with Argentinian Leonardo Mayer, who he has never previously played.

Reflecting on his win, Murray said: "At first I struggled a bit to get into the match because I had been so long without playing, but gradually I felt more comfortable. My goal is to get more rhythm and confidence back in my game."

Murray and his next opponent Mayer were born on the same day – May 15, 1987 – but they are worlds apart in terms of their careers.

Murray has won 13 tour titles, including five so far this year, and has already made a fortune in playing earnings during his career, while world No.64 Mayer has only just started to make an impact at the highest level.

Murray, meanwhile, has signed a new kit deal with adidas, which will take effect from the start of 2010.

He currently wears Fred Perry-branded sportswear – Perry was the last British man to win the Wimbledon men's singles – but has agreed a deal reportedly due to last for five years with adidas.

The deal will boost Murray's off-court earnings, and he said: "Joining a list of stars who have worn the brand, including Muhammad Ali and David Beckham, is an honour. I'm in no doubt that this deal will help me both on and off the court."

He will wear the kit in competition for the first time at the Hopman Cup in January.