Murray falls to Tipsarevic at first hurdle

LONDON, June 14 (Reuters) Briton Andy Murray was caught cold today when he was beaten 7-6 3-6 6-2 by unheralded Serbian Janko Tipsarevic in his rain-interrupted first round match at the Stella Artois Championships.

The 45th-ranked Murray had been poised to level the match at one set all when persistent showers halted proceedings on Tuesday.

On resumption, he held serve to win the second set on a cold and overcast day at Queen's Club but a refreshed Tipsarevic was quick to pounce in the decider.

The Serbian, ranked 69 spots below his opponent, raced to a 3-0 lead and punished Murray with his more aggressive approach.

He sealed victory with a scorching forehand winner past Murray's outstretched racket.

The Scot's exit left Tim Henman as the sole British survivor in the tournament.

With rain having wiped out all but six matches on Tuesday, organisers hope to fit in 20 singles matches on the third day of the event.

Champion Andy Roddick will attempt to begin his quest for an unprecedented fourth successive Queen's crown against Canadian qualifier Frank Dancevic.

Also in action are three-times former champion Lleyton Hewitt, French Open winner Rafael Nadal and Henman.

Reuters PM VV1805