Andy Murray Trains at Wimbledon Amid Doubts Over Fitness.
Britain’s Andy Murray practised at Wimbledon on Saturday as he tries to prove his fitness for what is expected to be his farewell at the All England Club.
The 37-year-old, a two-time Wimbledon champion, underwent a procedure for a back issue last weekend, casting serious doubt on his participation in this year’s tournament. Scheduled to play his first-round singles match on Tuesday against Czech player Tomas Machac, Murray’s presence on the court is uncertain.
“I’m just trying to do what I can, trying to keep progressing each day. Whether there’s enough time or not, I don’t know, but I’m trying,” said Murray.
Despite his uncertain status for the singles event, Murray might still compete in the doubles alongside his older brother, Jamie, later next week if his condition allows.
Murray, who recently had surgery for a cyst on his spinal cord, practised for a little over an hour at the Aorangi Park practice courts. Watched by journalists and photographers in an area not open to the public, it was a relatively gentle session with his coaches Mark Hilton and Jonny O’Mara. He hit forehands from the baseline and practised his serving but did little running.
“It was alright, considering. Obviously, I haven’t done much for the last week,” said Murray, who is ranked 115th in the world. “I need to be able to move properly, which I can’t yet, so let’s see in 48 hours or so.”
Murray’s attempt to compete at Wimbledon this year is particularly poignant as he plans to retire later this year, marking an end to a remarkable career in tennis.
