An emotional Andy Murray at Melbourne Park on Friday
| Photo Credit:
Getty Images
Andy Murray received support and tributes from the world of tennis on Friday after the Brit confirmed he is nearing retirement.
The former World No. 1 and three-time major winner underwent surgery on a long-standing hip problem last January and played just 12 matches in 2018 as a result.
In an emotional news conference at Melbourne Park, Murray revealed he was still in significant pain and admitted this year's Australian Open could end up being his final tournament, although he hopes to play on until Wimbledon.
Stan Wawrinka, Billie Jean King and Andy Roddick were among those to laud Murray via social media.
We look at some of the many messages hailing Murray's impact on and off the court.
.@andy_murray You are a champion on and off the court. So sorry you cannot retire on your own terms, but remember to look to the future. Your greatest impact on the world may be yet to come. Your voice for equality will inspire future generations. Much love to you & your family. https://t.co/AQUOP3LGec
Tennis will come to an end for us all but the friendships will last a lifetime. What you've done for the sport will live on forever. I'm hoping for a strong and healthy finish for you, my friend! @andy_murraypic.twitter.com/Bcs0cdllJp
Andy, just watched your conference. Please don't stop trying. Keep fighting. I can imagine your pain and sadness. I hope you can overcome this. You deserve to retire on your own terms, whenever that happens. We love you @andy_murray and we want to see you happy and doing well.
My heart breaks listening to @andy_murray during his press conference... Hope he will make it through to Wimbledon and have the farewell he deserves . #greatguy
Just thinking out loud here. He deserves his moment to say goodbye at Wimbledon. He's too important to Great Britain and Wimbledon history to not have it..... Would be a pretty cool moment to play doubles w his bro at Wimby if he can't play singles https://t.co/m7caeL2shX
My thoughts are with @andy_murray and I really hope we continue to see you fighting on court so you can retire on your own terms. Get well soon... Tennis is better with you. pic.twitter.com/0z1401hKXe
My thoughts are with @andy_murray and I really hope we continue to see you fighting on court so you can retire on your own terms. Get well soon... Tennis is better with you. pic.twitter.com/0z1401hKXe
Andy, Listening to your @australianopen press conference was so emotional. I truly wish you can finish your career on the center court of @wimbledon , I will pray God for that that he gives you the strength to make it happen... (1/2) pic.twitter.com/6kTzLqZpO6