Beaten Andy Murray upbeat about Australian Open chances

Andy Murray dismissed the idea that his defeat by arch-rival Novak Djokovic in the Qatar Open will have any impact on his attempts to win the Australian Open for the first time

Novak Djokovic celebrates after winning the Qatar Open title in Doha on Saturday. Pic/PTI

Doha: Andy Murray dismissed the idea that his defeat by arch-rival Novak Djokovic in the Qatar Open will have any impact on his attempts to win the Australian Open for the first time. The world number one lost 6-3, 5-7, 6-4 to the Serb in an early season classic, the Briton's first defeat in 29 competitive matches, but Murray said it would mean little when he soon begins his latest attempt to win in Melbourne where he has agonisingly lost five finals.

Andy Murray with the runners-up trophy after losing to Novak Djokovic 3-6, 7-5, 4-6 on Saturday. Pic/AFP

"I still think I have a chance of winning the Australian Open," he said after the defeat in Doha. "I don't think that changes. It's disappointing to lose for sure," he added.

Murray lost Melbourne finals in 2010, 2011, 2013, 2015 and 2016, four of those to Djokovic. Despite defeat in Doha, Murray said he had gained plenty from the week-long tournament. "I think physically it was a good test to start the year, and I did well here. My body feels all right just now, so that's positive. I still think there are things I can do better," he added.

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