Andy Murray is currently in the second innings of his tennis career, having previously considered retirement in 2019 due to a persistent hip injury. However, the Scot underwent hip-replacement surgery soon after, which enabled him to make a full return to action. He has now broken into the top 60 of the ATP rankings after languishing outside the top 800 at one point.
Inspiration for fellow tennis players
In a recent interview with Tennis Majors, the former World No. 1 declared that he would be happy if his story becomes a source of inspiration for fellow tennis players and helps them never give up on their dreams. The three-time Grand Slam champion acknowledged that he was extremely “lucky” to have had the opportunity to get the best medical care available in this age of scientific advancement. Murray hopes to capitalize on his good fortune and keep playing for even more years now.
Lucky to have had surgery at the right time
Andy Murray said, “That’s not something I’ve really thought about. But I would be happy if it might inspire other players, particularly amateur tennis players, to never give up and believe that anything is possible. I think I’m really lucky to have had my surgery when I did, with a great team around me.” He also mentioned that if he had undergone the surgery when Guga did, things might have been different. He expressed gratitude for being able to play again and really enjoying being back on tour.
Advice for players on a similar path
Andy Murray also had a word of advice for players who were on a similar path to his own, trying to make their way back into the sport after being told it is time to hang up their racquets. He said, “It was an incredibly tough time for me. I tried to show that in my documentary. I don’t think you can underestimate how difficult the low points are, but you have to stick to the plan, work hard, and surround yourself with good people who are on the journey with you.”
Following a hasty first-round exit from the Miami Open, Andy Murray will be in action next at the 2023 Monte-Carlo Masters. He will face 14th seed Alex de Minaur in his opening match. The 35-year-old wasn’t initially looking to begin his clay season in Monte-Carlo, but the withdrawal of Denis Shapovalov paved the way for the Scot to enter the main draw of the Masters 1000 event, marking his first appearance at the tournament since 2017.
