Murray out of Olympic Singles but will Play Doubles



Andy Murray has withdrawn from the singles competition in the Olympics but will play doubles in Paris in what will be the final event of his career.

The three-time Grand Slam champion has confirmed he will retire at the end of what is his fifth Games.

It means the final singles match of his career was against Jordan Thompson in the second round at Queen's in June, when he was forced to retire with a back injury.

That injury also led him to withdraw from the singles at Wimbledon, but he did play a final doubles match at the venue where he won two of his three major titles.

Murray will play alongside Dan Evans in Paris, with the draw set to be made on Thursday.

"I’ve taken the decision to withdraw from the singles to concentrate on the doubles with Dan," a statement from Murray read.

"Our practice has been great and we’re playing well together.

"Really looking forward to getting started and representing GB one more time."

The Olympic tennis tournament takes place at Roland Garros from 27 July to 4 August.

Murray is a two-time singles gold medallist, triumphing in 2012 and 2016 to become the first male tennis player to win two Olympic golds.

He also won mixed doubles silver with Laura Robson in 2012.

Murray won the 2012 US Open and two memorable Wimbledon titles in 2013 and 2016.

He finishes his singles career having won 46 ATP Tour titles, including 14 Masters 1,000 events.

He told the BBC on Wednesday that Paris is the "right time" for him to retire, having struggled with injuries over the past few years.

He had back surgery on the issue he picked up at Queen's, having previously suffered an ankle injury in March.

"Me and Dan made the commitment to each other, that is what we will prioritise," Murray said on Wednesday.

"That gives the team and us the best opportunity to get a medal.

"My back is still not perfect. I didn't feel great in the build-up to Wimbledon and during it. I feel better here."

Murray's withdrawal means Jack Draper, Cameron Norrie and Dan Evans are the British representatives in the men's singles draw.

Joe Salisbury and Neal Skupski are also in the men's doubles draw along with Murray and Evans.

Katie Boulter is the sole British representative in the women's singles and will team up with Heather Watson in the women's doubles, with her partner also playing the mixed doubles alongside Salisbury.

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