Who would've thought these guys would not play an important role in 2017 after this amazing match?

[merwy]

To me this is the most enjoyable Murrovic match out there. Aggressive baseline hitting combined with chess-like tactics from both sides. Novak seemed to be more the aggressor and often found himself hitting approach shots and following up to the net. Murray had clearly planned on abusing Novak's weakness, the smash, in this match. He made him hit a LOT of them. Unfortunately for him, Novak was nailing the smash quite well on this particular day (with a few exceptions in tight moments). Aside from the tennis itself, the tight scoreline also made this match so interesting. Murray's displayed his mental strength well here. This one could have gone either way.
The winner of the match was so exhausted that he didn't even celebrate. Note that during the handshake both guys are laughing and joking, probably over how amazing the match was.

Unbelievable to think that after this first tournament of the season, both these guys (then #1 and #2) would go on to fade away from the scene and not do anything of significance for the entire 2017 season.

 

[Deleted member 77403]

It arguable that Murray played a very important role in the USO 17.

 

[EdSWright]

It arguable that Murray played a very important role in the USO 17.

More of a role than Nadal's flakey opponents.

It seems like some view No1 as Everest - once you reach the summit, you climb back down. What's more interesting is those who reach the summit and stay motivated to stay there.

 

[Doctor/Lawyer Red Devil]

It was an awesome match, pity it didn't happen at a bigger event. Loved the play and drama so much. And it was on Christmas, great spectacle. But after seeing how the Australian Open turned out, I am never getting hyped again.

It arguable that Murray played a very important role in the USO 17.

And it didn't go unnoticed, look at all the reactions to Mury GOAT's impact on that tournament that I collected.