Andy Murray has announced his retirement from tennis following the Paris Olympics, stating it is the “right time” for him to step away from the sport. The two-time Olympic singles champion will play in the doubles with Dan Evans at the Games, marking his final professional appearance.
Murray, 37, cited recent injuries, including those that prevented him from playing singles in his Wimbledon farewell earlier this month, as a significant factor in his decision. He expressed contentment with ending his career now, saying, “I didn’t feel that way a few months ago when I thought that this is when I was going to stop. I didn’t want to. Now I want to. I know it is the right time for me.”
Earlier this year, Murray had indicated he did not plan to play beyond the summer but did not specify a final tournament. An ankle injury in March and a back issue requiring surgery in June jeopardized his emotional farewells at Wimbledon and the Olympics. Despite these setbacks, he played doubles with his brother Jamie at Wimbledon, although they were eliminated in the first round.
Murray acknowledged that his back issue would likely prevent him from competing in singles in Paris, a decision to be finalized before Thursday’s draw. However, he expressed confidence in his partnership with Evans for the doubles competition, stating, “Me and Dan made the commitment to each other, that is what we will prioritise. That gives the team and us the best opportunity to get a medal.”
While Evans will still play in the men’s singles alongside Cameron Norrie and Jack Draper, Team GB will also be represented in the doubles by Neal Skupski and Joe Salisbury. Potential high-profile opponents include Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz.
Reflecting on his career and future, Murray said his final match at Wimbledon was planned to be in the mixed doubles with Emma Raducanu, who withdrew to protect her wrist for the singles. Murray expressed no frustration over the situation and highlighted the special experience of playing with his brother Jamie at Wimbledon.
Post-retirement, Murray plans to spend more time with his family, pursue his goal of becoming a scratch golfer, and hopes to be involved in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics in some capacity. “I don’t know what the rest of my life will look like,” he said. “I will still stay in touch with the sport.”
Murray’s illustrious career includes winning Olympic singles gold at London 2012, defeating Roger Federer on Wimbledon’s Centre Court, and defending his title at the Rio Olympics in 2016. “Every time I have come to the Olympics it feels totally different [to other tennis events] and I personally love it. For me, it has been an amazing experience,” he said, expressing pride in representing his country and being part of the Olympic community.