5 questions for Andy Murray

This tournament marks the 45th time you will play on grass, but it’s only the second time on this surface outside the UK. Before, you played in Newport, US, in 2005.

Murray: It’s been a long time, yeah. I don’t know how different it is going to be. I heard the courts are really good here. My brother played here a few times and only told me good things.

How are you feeling?

Murray: I played 4 matches last week in Surbiton. I played some good tennis, but those were other grass courts, more old-school. Lower bounce, very fast. But it was a good start, hopefully I can continue this here.

Do you like playing in Germany and in front of German fans?

I haven’t played that much over the years. I played in Munich and in Hamburg a few times before that changed the date. After Wimbledon I haven’t played there. I always enjoyed playing in Germany. Tennis, I think, is a big part of sports culture. The country always had top players and they get great support. Also, I like to play at tennis clubs like here or in Munich.

What are your goals for here and the next weeks?

Murray: Hopefully to get as many matches as I can this week and improve from last week. You can’t always control the results or how well you are going to play. But I can control my preparation and such things and I try to give myself an opportunity for as many matches as possible. That’s my goal.

You promised to donate your prize-money to Ukrainian children.

Murray: I’m donating my prize-money to UNICEF. I’ve worked with them over a number of years. What’s happening in Ukraine is horrific. Children having to flee their homes, getting killed or separated from their parents. There is not much I can do, but I felt I could give as much as I can this year to the Ukrainian people. What happens with the money is kind of flexible. The situation is changing constantly. But the money will be there to support children and their families. UNICEF will use the money best.