DOHA: Wimbledon champion Andy Murray warned of “bumps along the road” during his comeback from injury and his words proved prophetic as he began the new year with a stunning second-round loss in the Qatar Open.

Murray led by a set and 3-0 and yet lost 3-6, 6-4, 6-2 to Florian Mayer, the world No. 40 from Germany, who seemed more surprised than anyone at how the contest turned around.

It was only Murray’s second match on the tour after a back operation and a four-month absence, but for about an hour his lack of match practice had hardly seemed a problem as he took charge.

Then Mayer attacked more, Murray tired, and everything changed.

“It was amazing,” said Mayer. “To be honest in my mind the match was finished. I don’t know how I came back. I played fantastic tennis. In the third set maybe he was injured, but I played well.”

Murray however admitted to no injuries during the one hour 51 minute encounter, and whatever his physical discomfort it did not prevent him playing doubles later in the day.

“I am stiff and sore but that’s to be expected,” he claimed. “It’s more the joints rather than muscles. I have to get used to changing direction and playing at this level.

“I didn’t have high expectations because I have not had many matches. I was playing well and moving well at the beginning.”

It was nevertheless “a good day”, Murray concluded. “I lost two matches but got through without any niggles or injuries.” — AFP