Three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray has withdrawn from next week’s French Open as he switches his focus to the upcoming grass swing.
The former world No.1 has been contemplating whether to play at Roland Garros over the past few weeks during what has been a roller-coaster clay swing for the Brit. Murray has lost his opening match at four out of the past five tournaments he has played on the Tour with the one exception being at a Challenger event in France where he won the title. However, on the ATP Tour, he hasn’t won back-to-back matches since reaching the final of the Qatar Open in February.
“What the right thing is to prioritise at this stage in my career. I trust my body now, but I’m aware that my best chance of having a deep run is more likely to happen at Wimbledon.” Murray told The Guardian earlier this year of his Grand Slam prospects.
Murray has only played at the French Open once over the past five years which was in 2019. Last season he also decided to miss the tournament to maximize his preparation for the grass swing. His best performance at Roland Garros was reaching the final in 2016 when he was beaten by Novak Djokovic. He also reached the semi-finals in 2017 before losing to Stan Wawrinka.
The 36-year-old is yet to publically comment on his decision to pull out of Roland Garros with his withdrawal being confirmed by the tournament. Heading into Wimbledon, he is set to play the Cinch Open at the Queen’s Club. Although he may decide to play more grass-court events.
Murray has won 46 ATP titles and played in the main draw of 56 Grand Slam tournaments. In 2019 he underwent hip resurfacing surgery to prolong his career.
