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Andy Murray: A Champion Who Often Shut Down Sexist Reporting In Tennis

Andy Murray announced that the time has come to conclude his remarkable career. Despite his love for the sport, Murray acknowledged that his body no longer allows him to perform at the level he desires.

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Ishika Thanvi
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andy murray retirement

Image: Paul Childs/Reuters

Andy Murray, the Scottish tennis star, has announced that the time has come to conclude his remarkable career. Following his and his brother Jamie's defeat in the first round of the men's doubles at Wimbledon, Murray admitted, “I’m ready to finish playing because I can’t play to the level that I would want to any more.” Despite his enduring love for the sport, the travel, the competition, and the continual striving for improvement, Murray acknowledged that his body no longer allows him to perform at the level he desires.

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A Final Bow at Wimbledon

On Thursday evening, the Murray brothers faced a 7-6 (6), 6-4 defeat by the Australian pair Rinky Hijikata and John Peers on Centre Court. This match marks one of Andy's final appearances in his illustrious career. Only twelve days prior, Murray underwent back surgery to remove a spinal cyst. Despite not being able to recover in time for the singles competition, he chose to participate in the doubles.

Celebrating a Legacy

After a 19-year career that includes three Grand Slam titles, Andy Murray plans to retire from professional tennis at the end of this summer. Following his recent defeat, the All England Club held a presentation to honour his contributions to the sport. Notable figures such as Novak Djokovic, Tim Henman, Iga Swiatek, John McEnroe, and Martina Navratilova gathered to pay tribute to Murray.

Reflecting on the ceremony, Murray shared, “Look, it was really nice. When the video was playing, my head was spinning a lot. I know I’m about to have to speak. It’s difficult in those moments ’cause there are a lot of people you want to thank and address, but it is not easy. It was pretty emotional, as well. Watching the video was nice, but hard as well, for me because you know it’s coming to the end of something that you’ve absolutely loved doing, yeah, for such a long time. So that’s difficult.”

When Murray Shut Down Sexism In Tennis

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Gold medalist Murray, who holds a gold in both singles and doubles, gave his two cents to a reporter when the latter blatantly ignored women tennis players in the sport and questioned, "You're the first person ever to win two Olympic gold medals. To defend the singles title, I think Venus and Serena have won four."

In one of the many times, Murray corrected a reporter who completely sidelined women players in the sport and made an observation about a US representative keeping only male players in mind. He stated, "Andy, Sam is the first US player to reach a major semi-final since 2009, how would you describe..?" Murray interrupted the reporter saying, "Male player." 

The Final Matches

Murray's final Wimbledon appearance will be in the mixed doubles competition, partnering with Emma Raducanu. Additionally, he will compete in the Paris Olympics, marking his fifth Olympic Games before retiring. This final chapter in his career is a testament to his enduring commitment and love for tennis.

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Current world number 1 Iga Swiatek, paid tribute to Murray and acknowledged his support writing, "couldn't wish for better support for women's tennis."

A Legacy of Dedication

When asked about his legacy, Murray expressed pride in his consistent effort and discipline throughout his career. “I think the thing that I did a really good job of during my career was that, regardless of the highs and lows, whether it was winning tournaments, having difficult losses, an operation, a setback, that I was able to treat the next day like I always came into work with the same dedication, work ethic and passion, as I had the day before, regardless of the highs and lows that the sport kind of has thrown at me,” he said. “I certainly didn’t always get it right. Like on the match days, I was not perfect by any stretch, but I did always come into work and put in a good day. I gave my best effort. That’s what I’m proud of.”

Emotional Reactions

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Andy Murray's career is a testament to his resilience, passion, and unwavering dedication. As he prepares to retire, his legacy will not only be remembered for his titles and achievements but also for his relentless work ethic and commitment to the sport he loves.

Wimbledon Andy Murray retirement professional tennis
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