Andy Murray has decided not to play in the Wimbledon singles, instead making his farewell to the All England Club in the doubles alongside older brother Jamie.
Murray, who is planning to retire later this year, had surgery 10 days ago on a back issue.
The 37-year-old, who won Wimbledon in 2013 and 2016, was due to play Tomas Machac of the Czech Republic on Centre Court on Tuesday.
Former world number one Murray had a cyst close to his spinal cord removed because it was causing nerve pain in his right leg.
Speaking a few hours after his withdrawal was announced, Murray said: “I wanted to sleep on it, make sure I was happy with the decision and give myself the chance when I woke up to see if it felt much better.
“I ran around a bit at home this morning when I got up – it wasn’t where I wanted it to be unfortunately.
“It’s probably a few days too soon but I’m proud I worked extremely hard to give myself a chance to play. It’s the right decision.”
Wimbledon organisers said they were “sorry to hear” Murray was not playing in the singles.
“We are so looking forward to seeing you compete in the doubles and celebrating all the memories you have given us,” a statement added.
The Murray brothers, who have never teamed up at the Championships, will play Australian pair Rinky Hijikata and John Peers later this week.
The first round of the men’s doubles is scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, but Wimbledon chief executive Sally Bolton said the Murrays could even play on Friday.
“I think it is likely to be Thursday but depends on conditions. I’m not 100% sure,” Andy Murray added. Credit: bbc.com
