Switzerland defeat Scot Murdoch in Worlds opener

SCOTLAND'S David Murdoch made the worst possible start to his campaign at the World Curling Championships.

UNCONVINCING START: Scotland's David Murdoch faces games against the United States and Germany in Moncton, Canada, on Sunday (Getty Images)

Last year's silver medallist and the reigning European champion lost in an extra end to Switzerland's Ralph Stoecki.

Murdoch held a narrow two shot lead after six ends and carried a 7-5 advantage into the tenth.

But Switzerland - who are coached by two-time world champion Russ Howard - leveled things up and then stole three in the extra end for a 10-7 win.

Murdoch will now look to rebound with matches against the USA and Germany on Sunday.

Elsewhere, reigning world champion and overhwhelming favourite, Canada's Kevin Martin, overcame Japan 7-4.

"The standard of the other teams is definitely getting better," said Martin.

"Because of the Olympics they're training way harder and getting a lot better.

"It makes it tough because all the teams that are there to play their best games against us. There's no doubt about that - that's why we have to be ready."