US Open 2015: Andy Murray a step ahead of Novak Djokovic, says Boris Becker

Andy Murray was victorious in his first-round match in the US Open, but had a tough game against controversial tennis pro Nick Kyrgios. The world No. 3 may have had a hard time dealing with Kyrgios in the opening round, but Boris Becker, Novak Djokovic’s coach, said it will serve him well as the tournament goes on.

Becker, who took over as Djokovic’s coach in December 2013, claimed that Murray’s tough first-round match gave him an advantage at the US Open. While world No. 1 Djokovic showed his dominance in the world of tennis, sweeping Brazil’s Joao Souza in straights sets 6-1 6-1 6-1, Becker is convinced that Murray’s difficult tie against Kyrgios is preferable in pursuit of the top prize.

"[Murray's match against Kyrgios] was a tight one, especially the first three sets. That's when you know he's done his homework, the practice before the tournament and he's ready to go,” Becker told Sky Sports.

Becker also discussed that a rough match in the US Open usually comes in the third or fourth round. However, the former world No. 1 believes Murray, getting a well-contested first-round, gives him “a step ahead of the rest of the filed.”

Murray appeared victorious on Wednesday against Kyrgios after a thrilling four-set win 7-5 6-3 4-6 6-1, and will start his Flushing Meadows campaign on Friday against Adrian Mannrino, who defeated Konstatin Krachkuv of Russia 7-6(6) 6-4 6-1.

The Frenchman, ranked as world No. 35, admitted he expects a complicated match against Murray, who is also hoping to fend off a “tricky” Mannarino. "I don't play this kind of guy every day, so it's also fun to see the difference between us and where I have to work,” Mannarino said, the BBC reported.

The head-to-head between Murray and Mannarino will be followed by British No. 2 Aljaz Bedene, who will play American Donald Young.

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