Aussies in awe as Wimbledon farewells Andy Murray
As Andy Murray’s legendary playing career enters its final chapter, the reactions from his peers exemplify just how loved he is within the tennis universe.
In front of a packed Centre Court crowd, Murray was eliminated from the men’s doubles draw at Wimbledon – a result followed by an emotional tribute.
Novak Djokovic, Martina Navratilova, John McEnroe, Iga Swiatek and Lleyton Hewitt were just some of the tennis legends who watched on as Murray graced the storied court for one of the final times, in partnership with brother Jamie.
For the Australian duo of John Peers and Rinky Hijikata – who defeated the Murray brothers 7-6(6) 6-4 – the experience was just as meaningful.
“To be able to step out and share it with Andy was something really special,” Peers said. “It was Andy’s night, but unfortunately, we upset it for him.”
Fellow Aussie Storm Hunter spoke on The AO Show Weekly about the enormity of the occasion, and going up against one of Great Britain’s greatest-ever athletes in their home-Slam swansong.
LISTEN: The AO Show Weekly
“I’m sure they grew up watching Andy and admiring Andy too, and almost in a way, not wanting to be the ones that end Andy’s career,” said Hunter, the women’s doubles world No.6.
“What an amazing opportunity for Peersy and Rinky to go out and play their first-round doubles on Centre Court at Wimbledon.”
A Wimbledon men’s singles champion in 2013 and 2016, Murray’s performances on Centre Court have been an inspiration for so many young players emerging on tour, and later competing against him.
One of them is 23-year-old rising star Hijikata, a fellow counterpuncher who saw Murray as a hero in his childhood days.
Hijikata felt honoured to share the court with the three-time major champion.
“It was as pretty surreal moment,” said world No.77 Hijikata.
“He was someone that I loved watching growing up and is one of my tennis idols.”
To add to the massive occasion, the Aussie was thrilled to play on Centre Court for the first time.
“I think that’s the most prestigious court in tennis and the one you dream of playing on when you’re a kid,” Hijikata said.
Murray still has one last Wimbledon event to look forward to, when he pairs with fellow Brit Emma Raducanu in the mixed doubles.
In what will undoubtedly be another massive spectacle, the duo will play Zhang Shuai and Marcelo Arevalo in the opening round.
