Murray beats Verdasco to win first Dubai Championships title

Britain’s Andy Murray saw off Spaniard Fernando Verdasco in straight sets to win the Dubai Championships for the first time.
The world number one dropped his first two service games but recovered to win 6-3 6-2 in one hour and 14 minutes.
It is Murray’s first tournament win of 2017 and the 45th of his career, which will see him extend his lead over Novak Djokovic at the top of the rankings.
“I’m obviously very happy to do it here for the first time,” said Murray.
“It’s been a good start to the year.”
Murray went into the final with a 12-1 record against Verdasco, but the Scot made a slow start to the final, losing his first two service games and throwing in four double faults.
However, Murray managed to get himself level at 3-3 and was rarely troubled again.
Verdasco, 33, let a 40-0 lead slip in game eight, firing a forehand wide on break point and Murray served out a set in which his returning ability had made up for some erratic serving.