Federer rallies to Murray's cause

Andy Murray is being offered coaching help and sympathy as he deals with his slump in form.

The British No1 has not won a set since the Australian Open semi-final, losing against Novak Djokovic in that final before suffering swift exits at Rotterdam, Indian Wells and Miami.

Roger Federer sympathises with the 23-year-old. The 16-time Grand Slam champion said: "I struggled hugely when I was between 19 and 23, so for it to happen once in a while, I don't think it's that much of a worry. It's important he picks it up before the French [Open] and Wimbledon but he's too good a player to continue like this, so he'll be all right.

"You can always lose in Rotterdam, you can always lose in Indian Wells, but it's [worrying] if it becomes a trend and now, with the clay-court season looming, it's obviously not a good sign for him."

With many critics calling on Murray to find a new coach, Ivan Lendl, the winner of eight Major titles, has revealed he would like to coach the world No5. The Czech is reported to have made informal contact with Murray, who currently employs Alex Corretja as a part-time consultant.
Back in Miami, Djokovic breezed into the fourth round with a 6-2, 6-0 victory over James Blake.

The Serb said: "I'm playing the best tennis I've played in my life."

Defending women's champion Kim Clijsters had to dig in to beat the 27th seed Maria Jose Martinez Sanchez 6-4, 4-6, 6-3.