Thomaz Bellucci plays down record over Andy Murray ahead of US Open clash

Thomaz Bellucci has played down his previous success over Andy Murray as the duo prepare to square off at the US Open today.

Third-seed Murray is a big favourite to reach the fourth round but history favours the Brazilian, who beat the Scot 6-4 6-2 on clay at the Madrid Masters in 2011 - their only meeting to date.

"He will be favourite to play against me, of course," the world number 30 is quoted as saying by The Scotsman. "He's playing really well, the last two tournaments he had really good results.

"I played once against him but it was different conditions – it was a clay court, altitude so this time's going to be totally different."

Murray, who won the title in 2012, revealed earlier on Saturday that he has been struggling with a cold in the build-up to meeting Bellucci.