Andy Murray’s potential availability for Wimbledon is unsurprisingly the dominant story at the moment, as we enter the final week before the tournament begins.
As one of tennis’ oldest and most prestigious events, held just outside of London, British involvement in the draw is always paramount.
Naturally, the various Wild Card picks are littered with people from all over the country, in an effort to maximise the potential that one of their homegrown stars could enjoy a deep run.
That is what the crowd will want, and there are arguably few others who have captivated this fanbase like the Scotsman.
So, when news broke suggesting that Andy Murray would be out for Wimbledon, the tennis world was heartbroken.
However, it seems that the announcement might have been a tad premature.
Andy Murray’s team provides key Wimbledon update
After all, pundits have refuted Murray’s Wimbledon absence, and so too have a few rival news outlets too.
There remains hope, and now his own camp has stoked the flames of debate with their own update.
Relayed by journalist James Gray, he writes: ‘Andy Murray’s team say he is “continuing to work with his medical team to confirm when he will return to the court”. Adds “no decisions have been made”. The draw is on Friday morning at 10am, would suggest that is the latest any withdrawal will come.’
Given the seemingly definitive statement that he was ruled out of action, this provides a more promising outlook on his potential presence at the event.
Should he make this miraculous recovery, just days after surgery on his spine, it would mark one of the most miraculous physical feats in recent sporting memory.
The only hope is that he has it within him to then put on an admirable enough showing to survive at least three sets.
Andy Murray will not want a Wimbledon embarrassment
Despite his clear desperation to play, Andy Murray will not want to do so at the great expense of quality.
After his first-round exit at the Australian Open, his post-match press conference showcased a disgruntled figure who was furious with the level he had put out.
A serial winner, it is no surprise that he boasts such a mindset, having snagged three Grand Slam titles and numerous other tournament wins during an era littered with three of the greatest of all time.
He is a fighter, and will always keep going should his body allow him, but he will also be fearful of an embarrassing showing in what should be his final year at Wimbledon.
Therefore, whether he is fit or not, a decision will also have to be made on his ability to perform at the highest level. If not, then we may soon see an official confirmation from his camp that Murray has not made it to Wimbledon.
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