Two-time Wimbledon champion Andy Murray has officially ended his singles career at the All England Club, as he battles the aftermath of recent back surgery. The 37-year-old former world number one expressed his deep disappointment over his inability to recover in time for his first-round clash against Czech Republic’s Tomas Machac on Tuesday.
Murray, who is set to retire after the Paris Olympics, underwent surgery last month to remove a cyst from his back, a procedure he described as “not insignificant.” The operation led to partial loss of feeling in his right leg, complicating his final appearance at Wimbledon.
“Unfortunately, despite working incredibly hard on his recovery since his operation just over a week ago, Andy has taken the very difficult decision not to play the singles this year,” stated a representative for Murray. “As you can imagine, he is extremely disappointed but has confirmed that he will be playing in the doubles with Jamie and looks forward to competing at Wimbledon for the last time.”
Murray’s career at Wimbledon has been illustrious. He ended Britain’s 77-year wait for a men’s champion in 2013 and claimed his second title in 2016, bringing his Grand Slam total to three. His 2012 US Open victory came just weeks after a narrow defeat to Roger Federer in his first Wimbledon final.
Despite this setback, Murray’s legacy remains significant. He has been an inspiring figure in tennis, known for his resilience and sportsmanship. Fellow Grand Slam winner Stan Wawrinka praised Murray as “an amazing champion,” highlighting his influence and friendship over their numerous encounters on the court.
The physical toll of a two-decade career has been evident for Murray, who has battled hip injuries and undergone surgery in recent years. He missed Wimbledon in 2018 due to injury and only returned to compete in doubles and mixed doubles in 2019. This season, he sustained an ankle injury in Miami, which further hindered his preparations for Wimbledon.
Fans and tennis enthusiasts were eager to see Murray’s Wimbledon farewell, with Lorna Kennedy from Dundee expressing the sentiments of many, saying, “He feels like one of our own. He’s done so well and he’s just been so good for the sport.”
Murray’s withdrawal from the singles draw allowed Belgium’s David Goffin to step in as a lucky loser from qualifying. The 2024 Wimbledon tournament will see Murray’s final act on the Centre Court as he teams up with his brother Jamie in the doubles competition.
