Fiery moment at match's conclusion that led to Andy Murray's icy handshake with Spanish opponent
If looks could kill, Roberto Bautista Agut would be dead.
The Spaniard celebrated like a man possessed by the devil as he closed out victory over Andy Murray at Margaret Court Arena on Saturday night, eliciting the coldest of stares from the legendary Scotsman.
The two men then hardly embraced at the net.
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Bautista Agut had been riled up by the crowd's overwhelming support for Murray and the veteran's efforts in whipping up a frenzy, which he indicated in his press conference after the 6-1, 6-7 (7), 6-3, 6-4 win.
"He understands the game very well and he knows how to play with a crowd, how to play with the nerves of the opponent," Bautista Agut said.
"Today was a tough match.
"I think I did a great job."
Roberto Bautista Agut (left) and Andy Murray hardly embraced after their Australian Open match. Getty Images
The arena erupted when Bautista Agut smacked a forehand into the net to seal Murray's second-set tiebreak win, which squared the match as the injured Scotsman struggled to move around the court between points.
He stood with his hands on his hips and gazed into the stands, where onlookers were leaping, shouting, clapping and punching the air.
Murray expressed his appreciation for the support as he spoke to reporters.
"The crowd were amazing in all the matches, really," he said.
"I mean, they always are here. They give great support to the players.
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"I think Aussie sports fans in general love it when the athletes that they're watching give it 100 per cent, and I certainly did that the last few days. They responded to that and gave amazing support.
"I played in three amazing atmospheres. I'm very thankful to them for that. Great memories."
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