ATP

• Murray needs three sets to advance in Los Angeles

  Los Angeles, CA (Sports Network) - Andy Murray notched a three-set victory to advance to the quarterfinals at the $700,000 Farmers Classic tennis event.

  Murray, the top seed, defeated American Tim Smyczek 6-1, 4-6, 6-2, in just under two hours on the hardcourts at the Los Angeles Tennis Center. Playing in his first event since reaching the semis at Wimbledon, Murray will next face Alejandro Falla, who beat fifth-seeded Ernests Gulbis 4-6, 6-3, 7-6 (10-8).

  Also advancing was 2007 runner-up James Blake, who downed Benjamin Becker 7-5, 7-6 (7-5). Blake is participating in this tournament for the first time since losing to Radek Stepanek in the final that year.

  The final matchup featured fourth-seeded Feliciano Lopez, who beat Israeli Dudi Sela 7-6 (7-2), 6-4.

  Friday's action will feature defending champion Sam Querrey, who bested Aussie Carsten Ball in last year's finale here.

  This week's champion will collect $111,950.

  07/30 00:52:32 ET