Why is Murray branded a pusher rather than a tactician?

[Mr_Shiver]

I wouldn't consider Murray a pusher, a counter-puncher seems more appropriate. I believe the thing the frustrates people about him is that he has the capacity to push his game beyond this defensive style. I believe a lot of counter-punchers developed their style out of necessity, they often lack a big weapon that can hurt you (there are exceptions of course, but this generally appears to be the trend). So they hurt you with their legs and their consistency. Murray can do that but he can also play power tennis. It is just frustrating that when the chips are down he chooses defense. Its as if he would prefer to let the other guy mess up rather than take a chance himself and have it not work out. Guys like Fed and Rafa, I'm pretty sure they would rather have the big points decided on their racquets and not hope for their opponent to mess up. Anyways, thats my two cents.

My second theory has to do with sports in general. It seems as though the generalized masses, at least in America, are obsessed with offense. The rules in many sports appear tweaked to favor more homeruns, baskets, touchdowns, etc.... Apparently that is what people like to see. Personally I'd rather watch an intense pitchers duel than a slugfest or a shoot-out, but that's just me.

Anyway, I like Murray and I think it will all come together for him one day. He has shown flashes of great offensive tennis, he just needs to find the right balance. So there is hope for him, unlike Monfils, who despite having tremendous physical abilities prefers to stand behind the fence and retrieve all day. Now that guy drives me nuts, but it's also off topic.