Murray's father-in-law to given all-clear

Andy Murray's father-in-law Nigel Sears is set to return to the United Kingdom, having recovered from a health scare at Rod Laver Arena on Saturday night.

Sears is Ana Ivanovic's coach and was watching the Serb's clash with Madison Keys when he collapsed and was taken to hospital.

"My medical advice is that I will be allowed to leave the hospital shortly and I have been cleared to fly back to the UK in the next day or so," Sears said in a statement.

"I just wanted to express my sincerest thanks to the incredible people who came to my aid, as well as the brilliant staff both at the Australian Open and the Epworth Hospital.

"I feel truly grateful to everyone involved for the manner in which this has been handled.

"While I appreciate the level of media interest in this story I would prefer not to comment any further."

Murray was one of many tennis players, pundits and officials to be deeply worried after the 58-year-old fell ill.

Murray, whose wife Kim Sears remains at home and is due to give birth in February, was initially oblivious to the situation on Saturday night.

The second seed only learned of Sears' setback after beating Portugal's Joao Sousa in four sets on Margaret Court Arena.

Murray rushed to hospital, understandably cancelling his on-court interview and post-match press duties.

Thoughts of a fourth-round match against Bernard Tomic would have been the last thing on Murray's mind overnight.

"I'm very sorry. I heard briefly what happened," Tomic said, the same week his first-round match was delayed for more than 20 minutes while a spectator received medical treatment.

Murray had a hit at Melbourne Park on Sunday, trying to turn his attention to Tomic.

Sears underwent tests on Saturday night but was in good enough shape to ask for a TV so he could watch Ivanovic's three-set loss to Keys.

Murray has previously said he plans to put family first and leave Melbourne mid-tournament should Kim Sears go into premature labour.

Ivanovic was visibly concerned after the incident and showed immense mental strength to return to court in a 4-6 6-4 6-4 loss to Keys.

Play had been suspended for almost an hour.

"All of the tennis family is both relieved and pleased to hear that Nigel is being released from hospital," Open tournament director Craig Tiley said.

"We wish him well and hope to see him back on the court soon."