Andy Murray pleased with improvement

Andy Murray has admitted that he is pleased with both his mental and physical improvement this year.

The 25-year-old, who will defend his Japan Open title in Tokyo this week, has enjoyed his best ever season thanks to winning the Olympic gold medal and his maiden Grand Slam at the US Open.

"I've probably improved mentally a little bit," he said. "It's very important at my age to make sure you keep trying to learn and get better.

"I've improved my game. That's the thing I've been the most pleased with this year. With the way men's tennis is now - there is a lot of depth."

Murray kicks off the defence of his Japan Open crown against world number 45 Gael Monfils.