MARK Knowles believes he could be the man to help Scotland's Jamie Murray cement his place as one of the world's top doubles players.
The three-time grand slam winner is the latest player to partner Murray at this week's Mutua Madrilena Masters in Madrid. The Scot has certainly played the field since his split with Eric Butorac but Knowles is a seasoned performer and long-time regular in the top 10 of the Stanford Financial ATP Doubles rankings.
He has won 46 Tour titles, many with long-time partner Daniel Nestor, who he split from after the recent US Open.
"There's no reason why it can't develop into a really successful partnership," said Knowles. "We've not looked much further than this week in Madrid but if we get on well, there's no reason why it can't go further.
"It's going to be strange playing with someone new after so long with Daniel but I'm really looking forward to it.
"Jamie is one of the best up and coming players in the world and I want to help him continue that development."
Murray has also partnered Mahesh Bhupathi and James Blake since he broke up with Butorac - who had helped him claim three ATP Tour titles this season. And Knowles, who Murray beat on his way to winning the Wimbledon mixed doubles title with Serbian Jelena Jankovic last summer, claims the 15-year age gap won't be a problem.
"I get a real buzz from Jamie's youthful exuberance," he added. "I've practiced with him quite a bit and he keeps me on my toes.
"He's going to give me a new lease of life and hopefully I can pass on a bit of maturity and experience.
"Jamie is a fantastic example to some of the younger guys coming through. He's decided to concentrate on doubles and is reaping the rewards for that.
"He's going to be around for a long time at the top level. Lots of people will be looking to partner him. He's a very desirable guy to link up with and the fact he's a left-hander will make him even more wanted.
"The best teams have a right and left hander combination and they are always more exciting to watch."
Eighth seed Murray could face former partner Butorac in the second round if he - and new partner Blake - win through their first round tie today.
n Watch the latest ATP Masters Series action at the Mutua Madrilena Masters Madrid on SKY Sports Xtra from tomorrow
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