Andy Murray announced earlier this week that he will begin a return to tennis by playing at Queen’s Club later this month. Murray, who underwent hip resurfacing surgery and has ben sidelined since the Australian Open, is teaming up with 2017 Queen’s Club singles champion Feliciano Lopez.
The 32-year-old initially announced in Melbourne that he would try to delay surgery in order to play singles this summer at Wimbledon and then retire from tennis. But those plans changed with the thinking that surgery–right away–could prolong his career even if it meant being unable to play singles in 2019.
Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal touched on the subject of Murray’s comeback following their respective French Open quarterfinal victories on Tuesday.
“Not really,” Federer said when asked if he was surprised. “I think when I saw him after his match against (Roberto) Bautista Agut, I also had just won my match. I saw him in the locker room and I was like, ‘So what’s up? Are you really retiring?’ He didn’t know. I was like, ‘Okay, clearly, there is misunderstandings or he’s not sure yet.’
“I just think it was an emotional moment, as you were probably all there. And I think he just was at a breaking point where he just realized, ‘Like this I cannot keep playing anymore.’…. He was in that moment and it just hit him.
“I think after we realized he wasn’t sure, we were all hoping he would come back. And from what I’m hearing, there [are] two ways to look at it. It’s number one for his health, and we want Andy to be healthy more so than being a tennis player. But if he can play tennis on top of it, that’s a super bonus. And I think all of us top guys would be thrilled to see him back on the tour.”
Similarly, Nadal was surprised about the retirement plans–but not about the comeback.
“Being honest for me, [it was] a little bit surprising that he announced (his retirement) that quick. So I always thought that he will find a way to try to be back, because still young and still very passionate about the game. So I’m happy to see that he (is) gonna play again, no?
“That’s great news firs for him and for his team and family, and then for the tour by itself, and then for the fans. So (it) is good for the world of tennis. (I’m) happy for it, and especially happy for him.”
I’ll be there
Lalo is an interesting choice. I rather thought he’d pick Kyrgios.
OMG! Kyrgios is NOT who you want if you’re serious about coming back. He’s not a good doubles player either. Feli’s an excellent choice. Very good grass court player and very experienced at doubles. Great serve and great volleys. He’s been playing serious doubles with Marc Lopez for the last few years. And Judy Murray is into him, lol!!
Sure hope he can make a comeback. Miss you, Andy Murray!