Former world number one Andy Murray has conceded he may’ve played his final match at Melbourne Park after bowing out in the first round of the Australian Open.
Murray – a five-time finalist at the Australian Open – was dispatched in straight sets by 30th seed Tomas Etcheverry, losing 4-6, 2-6, 2-6 in just under two-and-a-half hours.
The three-time major champion has struggled to get back to his best since multiple hip surgeries and hasn’t made it to the fourth round of a grand slam since 2017’s Wimbledon campaign.
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His 2024 exit stood in stark contrast to his 2023 campaign at the event, which saw him prevail in two epic five-set matches before bowing out in the third round.
An emotional Murray gave an extended goodbye to the crowd as left Kia Arena.
Speaking to reporters after the match, the 36-year-old acknowledged he may’ve played his final match in Australia.
“Yeah, it’s a definite possibility that will be the last time I play here. And yeah, I think probably because of how the match went and everything, I don’t know,” he said.
“Whilst you’re playing the match, you’re obviously trying to control your emotions, focus on the points and everything. When you’re one point away from the end, you’re like, I can’t believe this is over so quickly, and like this.
“Yeah, in comparison to the matches that I played here last year, it’s the complete opposite feeling walking off the court. Yeah, wish I involved the crowd more. Just disappointed with the way I played and all of that stuff, so… yeah, tough, tough way to finish.”
For a period of his career, the Australian Open was Murray’s most successful major, with five finals coming in seven attempts.
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