Andy Murray is returning to singles. After a lengthy rehab from hip surgery, the three-time Grand Slam champion will be making his singles comeback at the Western & Southern Open in Cincinnati next week.
Seven months ago, Murray did an early pre-tournament press conference at the Australian Open. Breaking down in tears, he revealed that it could be his last professional tennis tournament.
“I am not sure I am able to play through the pain for another four or five months,” he said>.
At the Australian Open, Murray lost a heartbreaking five-set match to World No. 13 Roberto Bautista-Agut. After the match, Murray stated that his plans for retirement would be at his country major of Wimbledon, which has won twice.
Andy Murray Demonstrated Success in Doubles
But after hip surgery, Murray was given a fresh start at this tennis career. While his rehab was lengthy, he could see the light at the end of the tunnel. That a return to tennis could be possible because he was feeling “pain-free.”
Before returning to singles, Murray has eased back into tennis by playing competitive doubles. Alongside Spaniard Feliciano Lopez, Murray has played in five doubles tournaments, including winning at Queen’s. At the Rogers Cup in Montreal, Murray and Lopez lost a hard-fought three-set battle to Jeremy Chary and Fabrice Martin 10-8 in the third set.
It was only a matter of time Murray would return to singles. Now, the crowds at the Western & Southern Open are going to get to see one of the most beloved figures on the ATP Tour. In Cincinnati, Murray has demonstrated great success, winning the event twice (2008, 2011) and making the finals in 2016.
A former World No. 1 and Olympic gold medalist, there is no doubt that tennis is better with Andy Murray in the mix. Embrace his return to the twilight of his career with pride.
Main Photo from Getty
