Andy Murray was given an emotional farewell after his final appearance at Wimbledon began with a straight-set defeat alongside older brother Jamie in the men’s doubles.
The two-time singles champion is playing at the All England Club for the last time before retiring later this year.
The Murray brothers arrived on to Centre Court – which had not hosted a first-round men’s doubles match since 1995 – to a standing ovation.
Another followed moments after they lost 7-6 (8-6) 6-4 to Australian pair John Peers and Rinky Hijikata on Centre Court.
A video montage of Andy Murray’s career was played on the big screen after the match, leaving the former world number one in tears as the thousands of fans showed their appreciation in an elongated ovation.
Murray’s parents Judy and Willie, his wife Kim and two of their daughters also watched on.
He thanked his family, his team members over the years and the fans for their support over the years.
Fellow Grand Slam champions Novak Djokovic, Martina Navratilova, John McEnroe and Iga Swiatek applauded from the side of the court, alongside British players Dan Evans, Jack Draper and Cameron Norrie.
Murray is set to appear again later this week, having signed up to the mixed doubles with fellow British Grand Slam champion Emma Raducanu.
“It was obviously very special to play with Jamie, we’ve not the chance to do it before,” Murray said.
“It was a race against time to get out here and physically it wasn’t easy but I’m glad we were able to do it one time together.”
More to follow.
Source Agencies
