Andy Murray’s Wimbledon swansong with Emma Raducanu AXED denying Brit and fans emotional farewell
ANDY MURRAY’S Wimbledon career is OVER after Emma Raducanu pulled out of their mixed doubles first round tie due to wrist stiffness.
Two days after his emotionally-charged Centre Court tribute Murray, 37, was denied the opportunity for one last farewell appearance.
Earlier this week it was announced that the pair would be entering the mixed draw together, with Raducanu jumping at the chance, calling it a “once in a lifetime opportunity”.
But following her 6-2 6-3 win over Maria Sakkari last night, the 21-year-old felt discomfort in her wrist – leading to her withdrawal from the mixed.
She is set to play in the singles fourth round against New Zealand’s Lulu Sun tomorrow.
In a statement, Raducanu confirmed: “Unfortunately I woke up with some stiffness in my right wrist this morning, so therefore I have decided to make the very tough decision to withdraw from the mixed doubles tonight.
“I’m disappointed as I was really looking forward to playing with Andy but got to take care.”
Grand Slam rules dictate that once the mixed doubles draw has been made at one of the four Majors, a new partner cannot be substituted in for injury purposes.
Their match had been due to take place on No1 Court this evening, and could have clashed with England’s Euro 2024 quarter-final with Switzerland.
Alternates Rajeev Ram and Katie Volynets have replaced Murray and Raducanu in the draw.
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SunSport understands that Murray is “so disappointed” not to be able to step out at his home Grand Slam, where he was singles champion in 2013 and 2016, one last time.
Murray was forced to withdraw from the singles event earlier this week, after having an operation on his back a fortnight ago.
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He did manage to get on court in the men’s doubles, however, playing alongside brother Jamie for the first time at Wimbledon.
After the pair were beaten by Aussie pair Rinky Hijikata and John Peers, Murray was honoured on Centre Court.
Wimbledon legend Sue Barker returned to lead the emotional ceremony, which featured a video containing messages from the likes of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Venus Williams.
Murray then gave an emotional speech on court, in which he hinted that he could soon return to Wimbledon as a coach.
The British hero is still set to play at the Olympics in Paris later this summer.
He is down to play in the men’s doubles event alongside Dan Evans.
The three-time Major champion will then hang up his racquet for good.
Meaning his Wimbledon career is finished.
Raducanu underwent surgery on both wrists, as well as her ankle, in May 2023, sidelining her for the rest of the season.
