Murray had to work much harder to hold his serve but did so once again and then broke the 27-year-old to move just two points away from what would be a morale-boosting victory.
Murray led 30-0 after Muller’s smash backfired but he was unable to take advantage, tying once again after a long deuce and a much-needed break-back point for the underdog despite Murray’s dismal form and followed that up with a breathtaking defence to lead 5-4.
The Brit held his serve once more with new balls in play, but as the sun set in Doha more gruelling conditions faced the pair and the longer rallies did not favour Murray’s game and he trailed 6-5 before sending the match to a tiebreaker.
A fine forehand saw Murray move ahead 2-1, but a backhand winner and overhand smash restored Muller’s advantage. A mini-break saw the French star look on course to win but he telegraphed a drop shot that Murray read, a stunning first serve brought up match point and a first victory in seven attempts for the Brit.
