LONDON: Andy Murray’s hopes of a singles comeback at Wimbledon were dashed on Tuesday as he withdrew from the tournament due to fitness concerns, leaving Novak Djokovic as the sole remaining member of the “Big Four” in the men’s draw.
Murray, a two-time Wimbledon champion, had been battling to recover from a back surgery last month, which he underwent to address a cyst issue. Despite his efforts to rehabilitate in time for the prestigious event, the 37-year-old Scottish star made the difficult decision to pull out of the singles competition. He will, however, compete in the doubles alongside his brother Jamie.
In a statement released by Murray’s representatives, it was confirmed that while disappointed, Murray is looking forward to bidding adieu to Wimbledon in front of his loyal British supporters.
Replacing Murray in the men’s draw is Belgium’s David Goffin, who enters as a lucky loser from the qualifying rounds.
Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic, aiming to match Roger Federer’s record of eight Wimbledon titles, remains focused on his quest for greatness. The Serbian, who underwent knee surgery recently, assured fans that he is pain-free and ready to compete. Djokovic, ranked world number two, begins his campaign against Czech qualifier Vit Kopriva, determined to add another Grand Slam to his illustrious career tally of 24 titles.
Djokovic expressed his deep connection to Wimbledon, describing it as a childhood dream. He emphasized his unwavering desire to compete at the highest level, particularly at Wimbledon, where he has reached the final in each of the past five years.
In other matches scheduled for the second day of Wimbledon, women’s world number one Iga Swiatek will seek to extend her impressive 19-match winning streak. The Polish sensation faces Sofia Kenin in her opening match, aiming to navigate the transition from clay to grass courts successfully. Elsewhere, defending champion Marketa Vondrousova starts her title defense against Jessica Bouzas Maneiro of Spain, while 2022 winner Elena Rybakina is also set for first-round action.
Tunisia’s Ons Jabeur, a finalist in both 2022 and 2023, will take on Japan’s Moyuka Uchijima.
