Former World No. 1 Andy Murray, who pulled out of the Australian Open has received support from reigning French Open champion Rafael Nadal and now 12-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic after disclosing his agonizing battle with a hip injury.
Murray, who hasn’t played a competitive match since losing to Sam Querrey in the quarterfinals of Wimbledon in July, announced his withdrawal from the season’s opening Grand Slam on Thursday after realizing he wasn’t completely fit to compete in the tournament.
He said in a short statement: “Sadly I won’t be playing in Melbourne this year, as I am not yet ready to compete. I’ll be flying home shortly to assess all the options but I appreciate all the messages of support and I hope to be back playing soon.”
Tournament director Craig Tiley said: “We are fully aware that Andy has been going through a difficult period with his hip and that he’s done everything possible to prepare for the Australian summer. Andy loves tennis and would do anything to play. This is a very hard decision for Andy and we totally respect it. We wish him the absolute best on his road to recovery and look forward to having him back in Melbourne. He is a true champion and one of our favorites.”
His decision to withdraw his name from the Happy Slam came after he struggled with his hip in an exhibition in Abu Dhabi last week and was forced to skip the Brisbane International, which was listed to be the Briton’s first official ATP event after a near six-month absence from the tour.
Murray, who revealed the travails of his fight with his hip problems in an Instagram post, admitted that he was badly missing tennis.
He said: “I genuinely miss it so much and I would give anything to be back out there. I didn’t realise until these last few months just how much I love this game.”
Djokovic, who is also struggling with a right elbow injury and is a doubtful starter for the Melbourne tournament, sent a touching message of support to the triple Grand Slam winner.
“Andy, thank you for genuinely sharing your thoughts and emotions with everyone,” Djokovic wrote.
“I can imagine how bad it feels.
“We all send you support and strength to get through [sic] this tough circumstances. God Bless.”
Earlier, Rafael Nadal had also sent his wishes to Murray.
The world No 1 wrote: “Andy, we miss you and we hope to see you back soon! Get well my friend!”
