Andy Murray has crashed out of the US Open after losing a five-set thriller to Kei Nishikori.
Murray had been in complete control in Arthur Ashe Stadium until first a rain delay and then, most crucially, a loud noise on break point derailed the 29-year-old’s charge.
Gutted for @andy_murray but he has had a wonderful summer and one defeat isn't going to take away from the champ that he is! #USOpen
— Nadine Erskine (@NadineErskine) September 7, 2016
Unlucky Andy Murray. Tough loss but has been an incredible season after winning @Wimbledon & an olympic gold medal #USOpen
— Luke Richards (@ltjrichards) September 7, 2016
Croatian umpire Marija Cicak ordered the point to be replayed and a fuming Murray lost the next seven games in a row as Nishikori claimed a shock 1-6 6-4 4-6 6-1 7-5 victory.
Andy Murray out of the US Open. Such a shame. Would've been nice for him to get this particular slam, but can't win them all.
— Jon Glanville (@jonglanville) September 7, 2016
What an insane game of tennis between @andy_murray & @keinishikori , gutted Murray didn't come out on top! Onto the next one ðð»ð¾
— Ed Hillier (@EHillier09) September 7, 2016
Crushing defeat for Murray ðª Devastated. #USOpen
— Joshua Coase (@JoshuaCoase) September 7, 2016
The Japanese will now face either Juan Martin del Potro or Stan Wawrinka for a place in Sunday’s final.