Andy Murray’s eagerly awaited return to grand slam tennis has once again been postponed after he was forced to withdraw from next month’s Australian Open.
The former world No.1, who hasn’t played in the main draw of a major singles tournament since January, made the decision due to a slow recovery from an ongoing pelvic injury. Something that has hampered the Brit during the closing stages of this season and forced him to make some changes to his off-season plans. Including pulling the plug on his training block in Miami.
It was at the Australian Open almost 12 months ago where Murray said during an emotional press conference that he may retire from the sport due to a persistent hip injury. However, shortly after he underwent resurfacing surgery, which has resulted in him being able to continue his career. In October He clinched his first title since 2017 at the Antwerp Open in Belgium by defeating Stan Wawrinka in the final.
“I didn’t think I had said that I was definitely retiring – I don’t know what I had said in the press conference really,” Murray reflected during a recent interview with British Eurosport.
“I was so emotional. I didn’t know what I had said. I didn’t think I had said I’m retiring. I think I said I would like to get to Wimbledon to stop. And at the time, that was my plan.”
The setback also means that Murray will miss the ATP Cup, which starts on January 3rd. He used his protected ranking to enter the event and picked Tim Henman to be the British team captain. It is understood that Henman’s team are seeking a replacement ahead of their first clash with Grigor Dimitrov. Although there is some confusion as Britain only qualified for the event based on Murray’s ranking. When Roger Federer withdrew, Switzerland was also removed.
It is unclear as to when Murray will return to competition, but the hope is that he will be fit in time for February. At present, he is currently entered into events in Rotterdam and Marseille. In a joint decision between him and his team, Murray states that he doesn’t want to rush his return.
During his latest injury-stricken season, the 32-year-old has achieved an overall win-loss record of 11-7 on the tour. Besides his Antwerp title, he also reached the quarter-finals of the China Open. It was in China, where he recorded his highest-profile win in terms of ranking. Defeating world No.13 Matteo Berrettini.
Murray is currently ranked 126th in the world.
