Andy Murray retires: Briton's tennis career over after Paris Olympics doubles loss

Murray's Career Ends In Olympic Doubles Loss

Murray's amazing career comes to an end after losing in doubles match - key points

A reporter from BBC Sport is covering the latest updates and news at the Roland Garros tennis tournament.

British tennis legend Andy Murray retired from professional tennis after losing in the Olympic men's doubles quarter-finals in straight sets.

Murray, who has won the Olympic singles title two times, and Dan Evans were defeated by American third seeds Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul with a score of 6-2 6-4.

Murray, who is 37 years old, announced before the Paris Games that this would be his last competition before he stops playing the sport.

Former top-ranked player Murray spoke proudly about his career, accomplishments, and dedication to the sport. He won the US Open in 2012 and Wimbledon in both 2013 and 2016.

Following a heartfelt embrace with Evans at the back of the court, Murray was clearly moved by the loud cheers from the crowd at Roland Garros chanting his name in admiration.

Evans softly urged his fellow team member to step onto the center of the court once more, and Murray smiled and waved to the crowd before heading off to the locker room.

Immediately after that, Murray stated that he was prepared to retire.

"It was definitely emotional since it was the final time I will compete in a match," he explained.

"I am truly content at the moment. I am pleased with the way things turned out."

I am happy that I was able to participate in the Olympics and end on my own terms, as there were moments in the past few years when this outcome was uncertain.

Murray, who started his professional career in 2005 when he was just a teenager, competed in a total of 1,001 singles matches throughout his career, as well as numerous doubles matches.

'Superstar' Andy Murray's tennis journey comes to an end following loss in doubles match

Murray's Career Ended With Curtain Call

The fifth Olympics marks the end of a challenging journey that saw Murray win three Grand Slam titles and reach the top of the world rankings.

Following a challenging season marked by injuries, including a recent surgery to remove a cyst from his back just five weeks ago, it was impressive to see him compete at Paris 2024. It showed his determination and resilience.

The ups and downs of his career, and his knack for making the most out of it, were represented by the impressive wins that Scotland's Murray and England's Evans achieved to advance to the quarterfinals.

The duo managed to overcome five critical moments in the match against Japan's Taro Daniel and Kei Nishikori on Sunday, and then successfully defended against two more against Belgian pair Sander Gille and Joran Vliegen.

However, another great effort against Fritz and Paul's strong opponents was not possible.

The two American players are skilled individuals ranked in the top 20 in singles competition. They are in their prime and have a strong friendship that translates well when they play together as a team. They have also competed together in numerous doubles matches.

Wanting to get off to a fast start to keep their momentum going, Murray and Evans were lacking the vigor and precision they displayed in their second-round victory on Tuesday.

They were constantly feeling the heat during their serving and struggled to make a significant impact when returning, allowing their younger opponents to quickly take a 4-0 lead in the first set. The opponents continued their momentum and eventually won the first set 6-2.

After Fritz and Paul gained a two-game advantage in the second set, Murray and Evans fought back to retrieve one break.

Paul emphasized the need to seize a match point immediately when it presents itself. The Americans didn't do this when they were serving at 5-2, but they were able to capitalize on their opportunity the next time around.

'I have been prepared for this moment,' said Murray after the last game of his career.

Why Murray Is Important To British Tennis

After beginning his professional career as a young player in 2005, Murray went on to achieve success by winning three major tennis championships. Among these victories was his triumph at Wimbledon in 2012, which marked the end of Britain's 77-year-long drought for a male singles champion from their own country.

In 2016, Murray achieved the impressive feat of becoming the top-ranked male tennis player in the world, making history as the first British player to reach this milestone. This accomplishment came after a remarkable season that turned out to be the highlight of his career.

However, his professional trajectory was hindered by a hip injury that first started to impede his performance in 2017.

Following several unsuccessful attempts to continue playing despite experiencing pain, he underwent a resurfacing surgery in 2019. This procedure involved the insertion of a metal cap into the affected joint, a move he believed would mark the end of his career as a player.

Surprisingly, Murray made a comeback in his singles career. He managed to clinch another ATP title in Antwerp towards the end of 2019 and continued to impress with some notable victories in Grand Slam matches.

Nevertheless, he didn't reach the same level of performance and couldn't make another successful attempt at a major tournament.

More obstacles persisted throughout the year, causing him to realize that it was time to throw in the towel.

He recently had a special event to honor his career at Wimbledon. He knows that there is no ideal way to end a tennis career, but he was hoping to win another Olympic medal with Evans as a nice way to finish off.

"I put in a lot of physical effort, and now I'm experiencing some consequences," Murray stated.

If I were to go back to the beginning of my journey in Scotland, no one, not even my own family, would have imagined that I would accomplish what I have.

When I was 18 or 19, there were many doubters who questioned my skills, talent, dedication, mindset, and other qualities.

It has been amazing, of course, as someone who aspires to accomplish big goals in the sport.

Reflecting on my past, I realize there are things I would change if given the chance. Despite this, I am grateful for the incredible journey I have been on and the valuable lessons I have learned along the way. These experiences will undoubtedly benefit me in my future endeavors, whether that be in parenting or in any other aspect of my life.

Andy Murray, a fantastic athlete, has decided to retire from the sport of tennis.

Boulter & Watson Lose Medal Chances

Picture credit, Getty Images

Heather Watson and Katie Boulter teamed up for their third doubles match together.

In a different place, the dream of British athletes Katie Boulter and Heather Watson to win an Olympic medal was crushed by Italian players Sara Errani and Jasmine Paolini in the quarter-finals of the women's doubles event.

Boulter and Watson were defeated 6-3 6-1 by the third-seeded team in a challenging match where they had limited chances.

The British team has bonded really well this week, defeating some impressive competitors to make it to the quarter-finals.

However, Errani and Paolini, who came in second place at the French Open just over seven weeks ago, showed they were a formidable force.

Inquired about the reasons for the Italians' success, Watson, who is 32 years old, stated: "They have a high level of accuracy. They rarely make mistakes that are caused by themselves, yet they still manage to play with such assertiveness on the court."

"It's a real challenge going up against them. They are an incredibly talented team."

Boulter, who celebrated her 28th birthday, mentioned that the fun and excitement that the British pair experienced throughout the week was still evident even though they lost.

"I am certain that this will be a major achievement in my career, especially working alongside Watson," she stated confidently.

We've had such a fantastic time, and I truly treasure these moments the most. Playing with that flag is an experience that is incomparable.