"I've never experienced a period like this as a professional": Andy Murray admits struggles but won't stop playing despite retirement questions

Saturday, 17 February 2024 at 21:30

Andy Murray rules out retirement despite a tough start in 2024. The former world No. 1 acknowledged that he is not going through a good period, and at 36, rumors of a possible retirement have circulated. However, the British player hopes to "turn it around" in the coming months.

The 3-times Grand Slam champion has already participated in four tournaments in 2024, losing in the first round of all four. Murray commented on his challenging moment on the Tour: "Tennis-wise it hasn't been a great start to the year. I've never experienced a period like this as a professional. It's been difficult, a new experience for me (which) is not the nicest, but good to experience new things and try and learn from them,"

Read also

The British tennis player (No. 50) was eliminated by Tomas Machac (No. 62), marking his fourth consecutive defeat. Despite acknowledging that he is far from shining, he still believes he can turn things around.

"When I do get myself out of it and start to feel better, hopefully I'll be stronger for it, but it's been hard. I've not been playing well and winning as many matches as I would like, so I'm hoping I can turn it around here."

Read also

Andy Murray was asked whether the challenging moment is due to physical issues or more mental, and he responded, "It's probably a combination of the two. Physically I'm not expecting to feel how I did when I was 20, so it's hard when you get to your mid to late 30s to stay at the level required to beat the best players."

“I've never really experienced playing really well in practice and not being able to translate it to a match court before, it was always the opposite for me," said the former world No 1.

"I was never a great practice player, I didn't use to win practice matches, exhibition matches, it's been the complete opposite for me recently. I know there's better tennis in me than I'm showing just now, but I'm hoping I can turn it around," Andy Murray concluded.

LTA

@the_LTA

·Follow

Special guest - @andy_murray! 👋 Andy stopped by to join @adamhillscomedy & those taking part at the first Para-Standing Tennis Day at the National Tennis Centre this weekend 📷

Photo of Adam Hills & Andy Murray talking during the Para-Standing Tennis Day at the National Tennis Centre

Photo of Adam Hills playing at the Para-Standing Tennis Day at the National Tennis Centre

Photo of Andy Murray talking to players at the Para-Standing Tennis Day at the National Tennis Centre

Photo of a young player at the Para-Standing Tennis Day at the National Tennis Centre

2:54 PM · Nov 27, 2023

485

Read 13 replies

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.

See author's posts

claps 0visitors 0

Jannik SINNER's dominance prevails, advances to Rotterdam Open final with commanding win over Tallon GRIEKSPOOR

Tommy PAUL dominates Frances TIAFOE, secures spot in Delray Beach Open final