Andy Murray frustrated by rain chaos at US Open

Rain has played havoc with the schedule at Flushing Meadows in New York, allowing a mere 15 minutes of tennis in the last two days. The chaos leaves British number one Andy Murray facing the possibility of four matches in four days.

Murray was one of just six men out on court for his fourth round match against Donald Young which was stopped early in the first set when the rain returned.

It was still raining when we went out, and you can’t play on a hard court when it’s raining because the lines are so slippy. Andy Murray

A statement from organisers read: “Unfortunately, due to the lingering rain, the day session has been cancelled.”

They had been keen to get the fourth round completed as quickly as possible, with the top half of the draw already in the quarter-finals. But many players believed that decision was hurried.

Murray, along with a very unhappy Rafael Nadal and Andy Roddick, have insisted on a meeting with tournament referee Brian Earley.

Nadal accused organisers of putting profit before player safety, telling ESPN: “Grand slams are (making) a lot of money and we are part of the show…I understand the fans want to see tennis but the health of the players is the most important and we do not feel protected.”

Murray backed up Nadal’s sentiment, saying on BBC Radio Five Live: “It was still raining when we went out, and you can’t play on a hard court when it’s raining because the lines are so slippy.”

“They [referees] stand on the court and say it looks all right but, if you try moving at the speed we’re moving at and changing direction, it’s completely different. It just didn’t make sense.

“It’s a huge task for everyone on my side of the draw. We want to get on the court and play but we’re not going to go on there if it’s unsafe.”

Of his chances of a first grand slam title, Murray added: “It’s an incredible task now.”