Andy Murray and Hanna: Two Storms in Town

Andy Murray's rise in the world rankings has been a steady one since he burst on to the scene as the US Open junior champion in 2004. Four years later, back at Flushing Meadows, he embarks on his first Grand Slam semifinal this Saturday, to the delight of the British public.

No matter what the result today, Murray will have risen to No. 4 in the world after this tournament, a feat last achieved by a Brit in 2002 by Tim Henman.

The Scotsman, however, faces Spanish sensation Rafael Nadal, whose year has been phenomenal. Culminating in his Wimbledon title win over now-no. 2 and great rival Roger Federer, he has set the tennis world alight with his flair and arrogance.

With the top four to be contesting the semi finals here in New York, could this be the start of many new rivalries in the sport? The other semi final is between the Serb Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer, and I'm sure Murray would love to play his great friend Djokovic in the final.

Murray's progress this far has not come as a surprise after his brilliant recent win at the Cincinnati Masters. His win over Wavrinka showed his class, and his win over Del Potro showed his grit and determination. After losing the third set, it took guts to finish the Argentine off in the fourth.

Some have said he was too defensive in that third set. However, with his trademark shots coming at the ends of rallies he's kept himself in with defence, who can argue? The drop shot, double handed backhand down the line and cross court forehand are all becoming more prevalent. 

Murray seems a formidable force. The question is: Just how far can he go?

For now the nation is behind Murray, hoping he makes, as a result of Hurricane Hanna, what could be a Monday final at the US Open.

Patrick Yates