Andy Murray not just focused on Australian Open with first child due

By Andy Charles

Image: Andy Murray's focus is not just on tennis in Melbourne

Andy Murray says much of his focus is being diverted towards the upcoming birth of his first child ahead of the Australian Open.

Murray previously made it clear he would quit the Melbourne tournament if wife Kim goes into labour, and he reiterated those comments as he continued his preparations to face Alexander Zverev in the first round.

The British No 1 has said it would not even faze him to have to withdraw from the final should he get that far in the year's first Grand Slam event.

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"I think most days I think about the baby," said Murray, who is looking for a third major title after previous wins at the US Open in 2012 and Wimbledon in 2013.

"Just now it's a big change coming. It's very, very exciting. I'm sure everyone that's had their first child in here would have thought the same thing with just a few weeks to go.

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"I've never been in this position so it's something new for me to deal with and handle, which is good.

Image: Murray married Kim Sears last April and the couple are expecting their first child

"New experiences are always good, something to learn from, but when I'm on the practice court and stuff, I'm very focused there. When I've been training, I'm not distracted on that side of things.

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"Just obviously after your practices and when you're away from the court, it's a bit different."

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Murray has reached four Australian Open finals since 2010, with three of his defeats coming against Novak Djokovic, but the chance of a first Melbourne title would soon be forgotten if the big call comes from home.

Asked if he would play in a final before flying back to Britain, Murray said: "The same thing would happen. For me, my child is more important to me, and my wife is more important to me than a tennis match."

We will bring you all the news, views and reaction from the Australian Open starting on Monday 18th January.

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