Andy Murray has expressed his desire to participate in the Paris Olympics next year in what would most likely be his farewell appearance in the Summer Olympic Games.
Murray, a 2-time Olympic gold medalist outlined his goal to play at the prestigious event and said that he would love to compete at the event after a disappointing display at Tokyo Olympics four years ago. The Scot is the only player to wear Olympic gold twice on his chest.
The former world No. 1 defeated Roger Federer in straight sets the finals of 2012 London Olympics at Wimbledon. He also paired with Laura Robson for a silver in mixed doubles category at the Games.
The 3-time GS champion then defended his title four in Rio when he defeated Argentine Juan Martin Del Potro in a four-set final. Murray recorded his Olympic debut at 2008 Beijing Olympic Games where he was eliminated by Lu Yen-hsun in the R1.
Murray had a disappointing run at Tokyo Olympics as he withdrew himself from the singles event because of an injury and had to compete in doubles where he partnered with Joe Salisbury to reach the quarters.
The tennis event for the 2024 Paris Olympics is scheduled to be hosted on clay courts of Roland Garros. Speaking ahead of ATP 250 event in Zhuhai, the Brit outlined his goal to represent his country at the Olympics for a 5th time.
“I’d love to play another Olympics. I have had thrilling experiences throughout my career at the Olympics. I’ve loved every single one that I’ve been involved in,” explained the 36-year-old.
“I was really disappointed last time. I’d gotten an injury right before the tournament and I promised my partner I would prioritize the doubles over singles if there was a problem.
“And we were very close to getting a medal in the doubles. We were up a set and 4-3, serving with game points in the quarterfinals and we had a really good chance and didn’t quite do it.
“So I was really disappointed with the last one and I would love another opportunity to play next year in Paris. It would be my fifth Olympics and most likely the last one.”
The ATP #41 defeated Chinese wildcard and ATP #668, Ye Cong Mo 7-5, 6-3 in the opener on Thursday. Murray will next face #63 Aslan Karatsev of Russia in the second round of the 250-level event for a rematch of 2022 Sydney International final where he lost to latter.