Andy Murray is in relaxed mood ahead of the start of his grass court season at the Artois Championships.
British number one back on the grass for first time in two years
Andy Murray is in relaxed mood ahead of the start of his grass court season at the Artois Championships.
The Scottish racket wielder, ranked 11th in the world, is playing at Queen's Club this week in preparation for the start of Wimbledon on June 23.
Murray did not get the opportunity to play in either event last year due to a wrist injury and is looking forward to showcasing his talents in front of his home fans.
He has been given a bye in the first round and begins his campaign against either Sebastien Grosjean or Rik de Voest.
"I feel pretty relaxed, I haven't really thought about the pressure or anything," Murray said on
Sky Sports News.
"I am just looking forward to be back on the grass because I missed everything last year.
"That might change a little come the first match."
A-Rod returns
Andy Roddick, the Artois Championships winner in four of the last five years, returns to action after missing the French Open due to a shoulder injury.
The world number six, who also has a bye in the first round, faces a possible second-round meeting with Robby Ginepri, who flew the American flag at Roland Garros in Roddick's absence by reaching the fourth round.
"I have to take it one stage at a time," said Roddick.
"I haven't been on tour in a little while, haven't player for five or six weeks.
"I think it would be a little bit presumptuous to look past the first match.
"It's Robby or (Vince) Spadea and Robby's in great form after his run at the French, so I have to get past that one first."
Hewitt optimistic
The opening day at Queen's sees four-time winner Lleyton Hewitt in action against British wildcard Josh Goodall.
Hewitt, who has slipped to number 28 in the world rankings, is hoping the grass will help revive a career that has failed to build on the early highs.
"This is one of my favourite tournaments of the year, especially after the French Open it's nice to come and play on the grass," said Hewitt, whose two grand slam titles came as a 20-year-old at the US Open in 2001 and Wimbeldon the following year.
"It's a totally different style of game.
"It's always nice to come back to a place where I've had some great success in the past. I really enjoy this whole month in London."
