Andy Murray, a two-time Olympic gold medallist, has announced his decision to withdraw from the singles competition at the upcoming Paris Games. Instead, he will focus on the doubles event, which will be the last tournament of his illustrious career before he retires from professional tennis.
Although he had initially entered both the singles and doubles events in Paris, with Dan Evans as his doubles partner, Murray ultimately chose to prioritise the doubles competition.
The British tennis star had opted out of the singles competition at Wimbledon earlier this month following a surgical procedure in June to remove a cyst from his spine.
As he approaches the end of his remarkable tennis journey, the 37-year-old Murray aims to channel his energy and efforts into the doubles event, hoping to conclude his career on a high note in the French capital.
"I've take the decision to withdraw from the singles to concentrate on the doubles with Dan," he said in a statement via his management team. "Our practice has been great and we're playing well together. Really looking forward to getting started and representing Britain one more time."
The three-times Grand Slam winner has had a remarkable Olympic journey.
Andy Murray achieved a remarkable feat by securing the singles gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics, where he triumphed over Roger Federer in the final.
Four years later, at the Rio Olympics, Murray showcased his dominance once again as he successfully defended his title. In a thrilling final, he defeated Juan Martin del Potro, to become a two-time Olympic champion.
In addition to his singles success, Murray also secured a mixed doubles silver medal from the London Games, partnering with Laura Robson.
Speaking to British media on Wednesday, Murray expressed his conviction that retiring after the Paris Games is the right choice. The decision comes after a successful comeback following his hip surgery, which allowed him to continue competing at the highest level.
"I didn't feel that way a few months ago when I thought this was when I was going to stop," he said. "I didn't really want to, whereas now I want to and I know that it's the right time for me."
