Andy Murray fights back to see off Jason Kubler for spot in semi-finals of Surbiton Trophy

Andy Murray’s decision to skip the French Open appears justified after he advanced to the semi-finals of the Surbiton Trophy.

The Brit has made a shot at a third Wimbledon title a priority, and felt skipping the culmination of the clay season would be to his benefit.

His grass-court season kicked off in West London, and he is now only one win away from an appearance in the final following a 3-6 6-3 6-4 win over Jason Kubler.

As has often been the case the past couple of years, Murray put his supporters through the wringer before completing the win to set up a clash with defending champion Jordan Thompson.

“I knew it was going to be hard,” Murray said. “He played well and has a lot of variety in his game and was one of the best juniors in the world but has had some problems with injuries.

“I did fine, it was very windy and gusty a lot so tough to feel great when it is like that but I did well in the important moments.

“Most of the tournaments you play on tour are in purpose-built facilities whereas coming here, you all love tennis and are probably members, so it’s always nice to play at clubs like this.

“It has been a good run so far and hopefully I can go a bit further than last year [when he lost in the semi-final].”

The 36-year-old struggled early, but got a handle on Kubler’s serve as the contest developed – and two breaks in the deciding set were enough to take him to the winning line.

Murray is ranked 43 in the world, but a decent run on the grass could see him secure a spot as a seed at Wimbledon.

In the women’s draw, three of the four semi-finalists are British.

Katie Boulter will take on Belgium’s Yanina Wickmayer, while Katie Swan will face Yuriko Lily Miyazaki in an all-British encounter.

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