Andy Murray secures victory in Japan Open first round

Andy Murray has begun the defence of his Japan Open title with a victory after overcoming Ivo Karlovic 7-6[7] 6-4 in Tokyo.

The Scotsman has continued his winning ways after he claimed the US Open trophy last month but it wasn't without a battle as Karlovic managed to push the Brit to a tie-break in the opening set.

While the Croat displayed some impressive returns, it was Murray who edged the tie-break 9-7 to ensure a one-set lead.

The second set was more comfortable for the Olympic gold medallist, who snatched a vital break and then held, which allowed him to maintain dominance and secure a place in the second round.