Andy Murray says he played some "encouraging" tennis as he made his return at the Battle of the Brits after seven months out.
Murray, who last played in November before sustaining a pelvic injury, took the first set with ease against British number one Dan Evans in the semi-final.
But the 33-year-old, who is ranked 129th in the world, eventually lost 1-6 6-3 10-8 to Evans, 30.
"I've just not been able to sustain a high level for long enough," he said.
"My game is there - I just need more time to practise and prepare and I'll get there.