"I wasn’t bothered being portrayed as ‘moody": Murray opens up on struggling to adapt to fame overnight at 18
ATP
Andy Murray
revealed the difficulties he had in adapting to his early fame at the age of
18.
The British
tennis player entered the top 100 for the first time in 2005 after reaching his
first ATP final in Bangkok, where he received a Wild Card and lost in the final
against the world No. 1, Roger Federer.
At the age
of 18, Murray showcased a remarkable performance that put him in the spotlight
of the tennis world. In an incredible 2006, he achieved four victories against
top-5 players, including a win over Federer, who was the reigning world No. 1
at that time.
He also
secured his first ATP title by finishing as the champion of the San Jose Open
in the United States on indoor hard court, defeating Lleyton Hewitt 2-6, 6-1,
7-6(3). This outstanding season propelled him to end the year in the top 20 of
the ATP rankings.
The former
world No. 1 commented on what the rapid rise to fame meant for him and the
significant changes it brought to his life.
“My life
changing overnight at 18 was difficult. Everyone makes mistakes as a teenager.
For most, that doesn’t happen in front of millions of people. I wasn’t bothered
being portrayed as ‘moody.’ Some of that would’ve been justified,” he said to The
Time.
The current
world No. 44 also commented on his future and admitted that he still wants to
continue competing.
“I don’t
want to have played my last match at Wimbledon,” he said.
“I’m still planning on continuing. But you
never know with my age. Another injury could be the end. You can’t predict it,”
Murray added.
This week,
Murray played in the DC Open and fell in the round of 16 against the first
seed, Taylor Fritz, in three sets. The British player continues to show a high
level of competitiveness and will compete in the Canadian Open starting next
Monday, where he was drawn to face Italian Lorenzo Sonego in his opening match.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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