The return of Andy Murray to professional tennis following surgery has been described as ‘unbelievable’ by former British No.1 Tim Henman.
Less than 12 months ago Murray revealed in an emotional press conference that he may be forced to retire from the sport due to ongoing hip problems after failing to recover fully from his first operation. However, his career was given a revival thanks to a second procedure. Shortly after the conclusion of the Australian Open, he has hip resurfacing surgery. Which is a procedure that involves inserting a metal rod into the joint.
Starting his comeback in June by playing in only doubles tournaments, Murray has made steady progress on the tour. In October he claimed his first ATP title in more than two years after defeating Stan Wawrinka to win the European Open in Antwerp.
Now ranked 126th in the world, Murray will soon be heading to Australia to start what he hopes will be an injury-free 2020 season. The return of the former world No.1 has been praised by compatriot Henman. The two will be working closely together in January with Henman being captain of the British team for the ATP Cup thanks to a nomination from Murray.
“What he’s been able to achieve in the latter part of this was unbelievable. When he was crying in that press conference, you felt his career was over. To be back winning on the main tour 10 months later, it speaks volumes about him as a competitor,” Henman said during an interview with The Age.
“I think he’d had such a difficult couple of years. He was world number one when his hip gave in and there had been so much frustration. His story really transcends tennis and this is where it becomes a bigger story in sport and in life.”
This week Murray will be releasing a documentary on Amazon Prime about his recent journey back from injury and the emotional effects it had taken on him. Called ‘Andy Murray: Resurfacing,’ the three-time grand slam champion opens up about a variety of issues. Including his personal experience of the Dunblane Massacre that took place at the same school he was attending that day.
“There are lots of people that have had new hips and got on with their life. But there are very, very few that have had a hip resurfaced at 32 and come back to play professional sport at the highest level. That’s where it’s inspirational.” Henman stated.
Henman, who is a six-time Grand Slam semi-finalist, is hoping Murray will be fully fit in time for the ATP Cup. A tournament described as a threat to the revamped Davis Cup, which took place last week.
“I’m really excited to be a part of the GB team. They just played well in Davis Cup, we’ve got nice strength and depth.” He said.
“Sydney has great memories for me… the more I thought about it, the more I was inclined to take up the offer.”
The ATP Cup will start on January 3rd with a total of 24 teams taking part.
