Murray out of Valencia Open

Tennis: Andy Murray has pulled out of next week's Valencia Open in Spain after picking up a virus.

The British number one was due to begin his clay court season at the event but will now stay on the practice courts until the Masters Series tournament in Monte Carlo, which begins on April 21.

Murray flew out to Spain this week to reacquaint himself with the surface after missing most of this part of last season with a wrist injury.

The Scot will stay in Spain before meeting up with two-time French Open finalist Alex Corretja, who is joining his coaching team for the next two months.

Murray is hoping to use the next part of the season to improve his ranking, which has slipped to 22nd after disappointing results in Indian Wells and Miami.

© 2008 The Irish Times