Andy Murray has been knocked out of the Australian Open — but hinted that he’s not yet ready to throw in the towel on his tennis career.
The Scot lost his first two sets to Spain’s Roberto Bautista Agut but staged a valiant fightback to win the third and fourth on tiebreaks.
He couldn’t quite find the energy for a fairytale victory, but the competitive nature of his performance will have surprised many, including his opponent.
Murray has already announced he will retire after this year’s Wimbledon, but had said his hip injury problems could force him out as soon as his exit from the first Grand Slam of the season in Melbourne.
However, in his post-match interview he talked about his need for a “big operation” and said “we’ll see” if it’s to be his last match in Australia.
He lost the opening set 6-4. Showing typical fighting spirit he forced his opponent to serve for the second set but couldn’t avoid going two behind.
However, the 31-year-old showed customary heart to take the third and fourth sets on tiebreaks.
But it wasn’t enough and Murray lost the fifth set.
He showed clear signs of pain and restricted movement but was given huge support by the Melbourne crowd.
He was given a huge standing ovation for his efforts at the end of the match.
Murray has never won the Australian Open men’s singles title – but has been the runner-up on five occasions.
