Ash Barty’s latest comments about Andy Murray show exactly why he is still one of the most respected figures in the tennis fraternity. Murray is nearing the end of his career after waving goodbye to Wimbledon last week, with the 37-year-old expected to retire later this year.
Murray has struggled to get back to his best since undergoing hip surgery in 2019, with a range of other injuries plaguing his career since then. He did well to make it to Wimbledon just a week after going under the knife to fix a back problem he sustained at Queen’s Club last month.
Barty, who retired in 2022 but has been playing invitational doubles at SW19 this week, had some kind words for Murray as she reflected on his career and legacy in a press conference on Wednesday.
“Andy is an amazing athlete, he’s been an inspiration,” she said. “He’s been someone who has fought so hard for equality and has always stood up for us and our tour. He’s an amazing, amazing person.
“I think it was really special that he was able to celebrate and reminisce on his career. It’s not over yet, I understand. He’s still trying to play some doubles, I think. I hope he’s able to bow out on his terms to the best of his ability. Physically we know he’s struggling.
“He’s been an exceptional athlete for a long time now. It’s going to be a sad day when he’s no longer playing week in, week out. A lot of people will miss him. I’ll certainly be one of them.
“I always enjoyed watching him play. His creativity on the court, his tenacity, the way he would fight, but then off the court he was a gentle, witty, very funny guy. I always really enjoyed spending time with him.”
Murray is holding off on retiring until after the Paris Olympics but is yet to confirm if that will be his final tournament appearance. He has been named in the British singles squad alongside Jack Draper, Cameron Norrie and Dan Evans and will also team up with the latter to play doubles.
Quizzed on when he might decide to hang up his racket last month, Murray said: “Probably if I was going to finish my career I would rather finish at Wimbledon or an Olympic Games. To me that would probably be more fitting.
“I’ve had amazing experiences and memories from Wimbledon but also being part of British Olympics teams. To get a chance to compete at a fifth one is a reason to stay motivated and continue playing. Like I said, a lot of it is based on results and physically how I’m feeling as well.”
