Andy Murray targets Australian Open improvement after Brisbane success

Andy Murray has targeted an improvement on his performance at the Australian Open last year after retaining his Brisbane International title on Sunday.

The US Open champion won 7-6 (7-0) 6-4 against world No48 Grigor Dimitrov in a brisk hour-and-a-half to claim his first title of 2013.

Murray lost to Novak Djokovic in a thrilling five-set semi-final in 2012 at the Australian Open, and the British No1 feels confident ahead of next week’s Major.

“I hope that the Australian Open goes a bit better for me than it did last year,” said Murray.

“I do feel more relaxed one week out from slam than I have done previously, that’s for sure, so I hope that’s a good sign.”

The 25-year-old Scot paid credit to his opponent for a tough match which saw the Bulgarian hand Murray a stern test, which included breaking the top seed’s serve in the first game.

“It’s his first final. Everyone will agree he played some extremely exciting tennis; it was a very tough match,” added Murray.

“He’s just changed coaches – started with a new team. I’m sure they’re going to do great things together.”

Meanwhile, Dimitrov was satisfied with his performance, although he acknowledged there was still work to be done before he can challenge for titles on a regular basis.

“He’s a top guy, so he has his rhythm, his routine on court. He pulled out some really, really good shots when he had to so I didn’t feel that I was far, far from winning the set or even the match,” Dimitrov said.

“I think I still need couple of years on the tour to get stronger and be able to hang with these guys all weeks, and especially playing best of five sets.”

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