Two-time Wimbledon champion Andy Murray has announced his withdrawal from the singles competition at Wimbledon due to ongoing challenges in recovering from recent back surgery. The 37-year-old British star, who plans to retire after the Paris Olympics, expressed deep disappointment over his inability to regain full fitness in time for the tournament.
Murray underwent surgery to remove a cyst from his back last month, describing the procedure as significant and acknowledging its impact on his physical condition. Despite his efforts to recover, the operation has left him with reduced sensation in his right leg, casting doubt on his ability to compete at the highest level.
“I decided this morning. I slept on it, I told my team and my family that I didn’t think I was going to play just based on how I felt yesterday,” Murray explained after opting out of his scheduled first-round match on Centre Court against Tomas Machac of the Czech Republic.
While withdrawing from singles, Murray will still participate in the tournament by teaming up with his brother, Jamie Murray, in doubles. The brothers are slated to face Australian pair Rinky Hijikata and John Peers later in the event, a moment Murray describes as special and one he intends to cherish.
Murray’s decision has drawn respectful responses from his peers, including rival Novak Djokovic, who acknowledged Murray’s impact on Wimbledon and the sport in general. Djokovic described Murray’s absence as a loss for the tournament and expressed hope that Murray can conclude his career on his own terms.
Andy Murray’s Wimbledon career has been storied, highlighted by historic victories in 2013 and 2016, where he triumphed to become the first British male singles champion in 77 years. His accomplishments extend beyond Wimbledon, encompassing three major titles in total, including his breakthrough at the 2012 US Open.
As Murray navigates the final stages of his tennis career, his legacy as a trailblazer and champion remains intact, with his contributions to British and international tennis widely recognized and celebrated.
