British tennis star Andy Murray, aged 37, is set to miss what was supposed to be his final Wimbledon after undergoing spinal cord surgery due to an injury sustained at the ATP 500 at Queen's. The injury, which has also cast doubt on his participation in the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, leaves Murray sidelined for six weeks.
Murray's injury occurred during his second-round match against Jordan Thompson at Queen's, where he had to withdraw after five games due to a back problem that left his right leg immobile. This back issue had been troubling him since the slow courts tour and worsened significantly before the match.
This is the second major injury for Murray this year, following a severe ankle ligament injury in March. The former world number one, known for challenging the dominance of the Big 3 in tennis, had hoped to retire either at Wimbledon or the Olympics. However, with his current condition, these plans are now uncertain.
Murray, a two-time Wimbledon champion, won the prestigious tournament in 2013 and 2016, becoming the first Briton to do so since Fred Perry in 1936. He also claimed a gold medal for Great Britain at the London 2012 Olympics held at the All England Club.
The Wimbledon tournament is also missing other significant players. Rafael Nadal has withdrawn to focus on his preparation for the 2024 Paris Olympics, and Novak Djokovic, currently ranked second in the world, is recovering from meniscus surgery after an injury at Roland Garros.
- Murray's withdrawal from Wimbledon is a significant blow, given his remarkable career and the anticipation surrounding his potential final appearance at the tournament. His absence will be deeply felt by fans and the tennis community.
- The uncertainty surrounding Murray's future in tennis adds a layer of poignancy to his current situation. With 46 ATP titles to his name, his potential retirement marks the end of an era for British tennis.
- The upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, scheduled from July 27 to August 4, were to be Murray's fifth appearance, thanks to an invitation from the International Tennis Federation (ITF). His participation now hangs in the balance, dependent on his recovery.
