Tim Henman offered his response to Andy Murray’s decision not to play singles at Wimbledon.
The 37-year-old did everything he could be ready to play at the All-England Club for what is likely to be the final time.
But after undergoing back surgery just ten days ago, this challenge proved to be a step too far for the two-time Wimbledon champion.
He is still in the doubles draw alongside brother Jamie where the Brit will hope to still have a Centre Court farewell.
Tim Henman marvels at Andy Murray’s competitive spirit after Wimbledon withdrawal
Murray needed back surgery after suffering an injury at Queen’s which forced him to retire from a match against Australia’s Jordan Thompson.
Reports stated he had a spinal cyst that needed to be operated on, and despite the short recovery time he was trying extremely hard to make it to Wimbledon.
His desire and competitive spirit was praised by Henman who commented on Murray’s withdrawal from the Wimbledon singles event.
“I think the circumstances of having an operation on your spine a week and a half ago, it epitomises to me his hunger and desire and commitment to just compete,” Henman told BBC.
“He wanted to leave it until the last minute to give himself the opportunity of playing singles and it wasn’t to be. I think at times there is a disconnect between Andy’s body and Andy’s mind and he just refuses to give in.”
Andy Murray’s dream of a Wimbledon singles farewell denied
Before Wimbledon commenced Murray said he would make a very late decision on whether or not he would play in the singles event.
It was announced on Tuesday morning that the double Olympic champion will not be playing as a singles star at SW19 one more time.
“Unfortunately, despite working incredibly hard on his recovery since his operation just over a week ago, Andy has taken the very difficult decision not to play the singles this year,” his representatives said.
“As you can imagine, he is extremely disappointed but has confirmed that he will be playing in the doubles with Jamie and looks forward to competing at Wimbledon for the last time.”
Therefore, Murray will finish his Wimbledon career as a two-time champion and the moment he ended the 77-year wait for another British winner will live long in the memory.
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