Andy Murray: Never Liked Tennis Anyway: Opening a new chapter in the life of tennis’s greatest generation, Andy Murray declared he was retiring “on my terms” as his trophy-filled career came to an emotional end at the Paris Olympics on Thursday. At the age of 37, the former world number one and three-time Grand Slam champion retired after losing to Dan Evans in the men’s doubles quarterfinal at Roland Garros.
On a crowded Court Suzanne Lenglen, American duo Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul delivered the decisive punch, winning 6-2, 6-4. Murray of Britain had previously declared that the Olympics would be his final competition.
“I’m proud of my career, my achievements and what I put into the sport,” Murray said.
“It was obviously emotional because it was my final competitive match. But right now, I’m actually delighted. I’m pleased with how it turned out.”
He continued: “I’m glad I got to go out here at the Olympics and finish on my terms because at times in the last few years that wasn’t a certainty.”
Murray wrote, cheekily, “Never even liked tennis anyway” on X, a few hours after he had left. Novak Djokovic, Murray’s long-time opponent, called him “an incredible competitor”.
“Among the best fighters in tennis history. I have no doubt that his perseverance will serve as an inspiration to countless generations to come,” the Serb remarked.
Injury toll
One of the “Big Four” in the sport, Murray retires with 20-time Grand Slam victor Roger Federer following the Swiss legend’s 2022 retirement. Rafael Nadal, the 38-year-old champion of 22 majors who is still dealing with ailments, left the Paris Olympics on Wednesday and implied that he had played his final match at Roland Garros, the site of 14 of his Slam victories.
In addition, Nadal effectively disqualified himself from the US Open, adding credence to the notion that the legendary Spaniard is no longer competitive. Only the 37-year-old Djokovic, the record-holding winner of 24 Grand Slams, would remain competitive among the elite players who have combined for 69 major victories in the sport.
When Murray won in 2013, he notably put an end to Britain’s 77-year men’s champion drought at Wimbledon by defeating Djokovic in the championship match. After breaking his duck in the 2012 US Open, he earned another championship in 2016, bringing his career total of majors to three.
Just a few weeks after losing to Federer in the Wimbledon final on the same Centre Court, Murray defeated the Swiss player to win gold at the 2012 Olympics on an emotional day at the All England Club.
He overcame Juan Martin del Potro four years later to become the first player—male or female—to win two gold medals in the Olympic singles competition.
In addition, Murray guided Great Britain to its first Davis Cup victory in 79 years in 2015.
In total, he has won 46 titles and taken home prize money totalling around $65 million.
But in recent years, he has suffered terrible injuries, dropping to 117th place in the world.
The Scottish player has been using a mechanical hip since 2019. He had ankle surgery earlier this year to remove a spinal cyst, which prevented him from competing in the Wimbledon singles draw.
Rather, he participated in doubles with his brother Jamie, losing in the opening set in front of a tearful farewell hosted by the event organisers.
“It’s challenging because I wish I could continue playing, but I’m limited,” Murray said at the All England Club.
“Physically it is too tough now, all of the injuries, they have added up and they haven’t been insignificant.”
Already, men’s tennis has blazed a new path.
The 22-year-old Italian Jannik Sinner became the world number one ranked player after Djokovic’s January victory at the Australian Open.
“It’s challenging because I wish I could continue playing, but I’m limited,” Murray said at the All England Club.
“Physically it is too tough now, all of the injuries, they have added up and they haven’t been insignificant.”
Already, men’s tennis has blazed a new path.
The 22-year-old Italian Jannik Sinner became the world number one ranked player after Djokovic’s January victory at the Australian Open.
Carlos Alcaraz, 21, defeated Djokovic in a one-sided final in July to win the French Open and successfully defend his Wimbledon championship.
“It was a privilege to share the court with you, Andy!” Alcaraz paid homage to Murray with a piece on X.
“It’s great to hear about your remarkable career and how you inspire everyone. I will always be one of your fans here.
