Nineteen-time Grand Slam <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-had-nothing-left-to-give-says-rafael-nadal-after-spain-win-davis-cup-264343">champion Rafael Nadal </a>and former world number 1 Andy Murray are among those honoured by the men's tennis tour ATP at their end of the season awards for 2019.

Nadal was&nbsp;voted by fellow players as the winner of "Stefan Edberg sportsmanship"&nbsp;award for the second straight year and third time overall. The Spaniard was also honoured with the year-end number 1 trophy at the ATP tour finals last month and named the ITF world champion for 2019 alongside women's number 1 Ashleigh Barty.

Three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray was named the "comeback player of the year"&nbsp;after going from almost retiring at the Australian Open due to persistent injury to an unprecedented return from a hip resurfacing surgery that culminated in a doubles and singles title.

Italy's 23-year-old Matteo Berrettini was named the "most improved player"&nbsp;of the year after a breakout season in which he won two titles, reached a maiden grand semi-final and went from number 54 to a career high number 8 in the world rankings. Berrettini beat the likes of Stefanos Tsitsipas, Daniil Medvedev and Felix Auger Aliasime.

World no. 4 Medvedev's stellar season was recognised indirectly, with his coach Gilles Cervara adjudged as the "coach of the year"&nbsp;after leading the Russian to a tour leading 56 match wins, four titles and nine finals.

The "newcomer of the year"&nbsp;award was won by 18-year-old Italian Yannick Sinner who won the ATP next gen finals on his debut appearance to cap off a season in which he went from being ranked 553rd to the youngest in the world's top-80 since 2003.

Swiss maestro Roger Federer won the "fan favourite award"&nbsp;for a record-extending 17th consecutive year while the Bryan brothers won the same award for doubles teams for the 14th straight time.

Nineteen-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal and former world number 1 Andy Murray are among those honoured by the men's tennis tour ATP at their end of the season awards for 2019.

Nineteen-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal and former world number 1 Andy Murray are among those honoured by the men's tennis tour ATP at their end of the season awards for 2019. Nadal was voted by fellow players as the winner of "Stefan Edberg sportsmanship" award for the second straight year and third time overall. The Spaniard was also honoured with the year-end number 1 trophy at the ATP tour finals last month and named the ITF world champion for 2019 alongside women's number 1 Ashleigh Barty. Three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray was named the "comeback player of the year" after going from almost retiring at the Australian Open due to persistent injury to an unprecedented return from a hip resurfacing surgery that culminated in a doubles and singles title. Italy's 23-year-old Matteo Berrettini was named the "most improved player" of the year after a breakout season in which he won two titles, reached a maiden grand semi-final and went from number 54 to a career high number 8 in the world rankings. Berrettini beat the likes of Stefanos Tsitsipas, Daniil Medvedev and Felix Auger Aliasime. World no. 4 Medvedev's stellar season was recognised indirectly, with his coach Gilles Cervara adjudged as the "coach of the year" after leading the Russian to a tour leading 56 match wins, four titles and nine finals. The "newcomer of the year" award was won by 18-year-old Italian Yannick Sinner who won the ATP next gen finals on his debut appearance to cap off a season in which he went from being ranked 553rd to the youngest in the world's top-80 since 2003. Swiss maestro Roger Federer won the "fan favourite award" for a record-extending 17th consecutive year while the Bryan brothers won the same award for doubles teams for the 14th straight time.

Nadal, Murray honoured at ATP awards

Great Britain joined Russia and Canada in the final four of tennis' new-look Davis Cup on Friday when they took an unassailable 2-0 lead over Germany.

Kyle Edmund beat German Philipp Kohlschreiber 6-3, 7-5 in the first rubber with Daniel Evans taking three sets to see off Jan-Lennard Struff 7-6 (8/6), 3-6, 7-6 (7/2).

Andy Murray was rested on Friday but will likely feature in the semi-finals where they face the winner of Spain against Argentina.

Rafael Nadal pulled Spain level at 1-1 with Argentina with a 6-1, 6-2 win over Diego Schwartzman.

Guido Pella had put the Argentines ahead with a three-set victory over Pablo Carreno 6-7 (3/7), 7-6 (7/4), 6-1.

"I was serving well and was playing at a high level, so let's see how it goes," said Nadal when revealing he would line up in the doubles rubber late Friday.

Earlier Russia beat <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-guides-serbia-into-davis-cup-quarter-finals-263723">Novak Djokovic's</a> Serbia to reach the semi-finals following a cliff-hanger match that went all the way to a deciding tie-breaker.

With the quarter-final level at 1-1 following the singles, the Russian pairing of Karen Khachanov and Andrey Rublev faced Djokovic and Viktor Troicki in the deciding rubber.

After a see-saw match of high drama, the Russians came out 6-4, 4-6, 7-6 (10/8) winners and face Canada, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-hurting-hewitt-pans-davis-cup-scheduling-after-australia-eliminated-263860">quarter-final victors over Australia</a>, in Saturday's semi-finals.

"It was heads or tails and the coin fell on our side," Rublev said.

"God gave me a chance to be a hero," he added.

Kachanov was already looking forward to the next match.

"We'll have to get it together for Canada," he said of the semi-final.&nbsp;

"Luck was on our side here, but this was one of the biggest games of either our careers."

Earlier in the day, Rublev won the first singles over Filip Krajinovic 6-1, 6-2 to give Russia a lead, cancelled out later by Djokovic, who overcame Khachanov 6-3, 6-3.

The world No.2 Djokovic, winner of 16 Grand Slams said the match had been "a real roller-coaster of a game, very, very emotional and very tense".

"Sport&nbsp;is not all about winning and losing but this hurts me personally," said the 32-year-old.

"Anyway the season is over now, we'll get over it. Tomorrow is another day."

Great Britain joined Russia and Canada in the final four of tennis' new-look Davis Cup on Friday when they took an unassailable 2-0 lead over Germany. Kyle Edmund beat German Philipp Kohlschreiber 6-3, 7-5 in the first rubber with Daniel Evans taking three sets to see off Jan-Lennard Struff 7-6 (8/6), 3-6, 7-6 (7/2).

Great Britain joined Russia and Canada in the final four of tennis' new-look Davis Cup on Friday when they took an unassailable 2-0 lead over Germany. Kyle Edmund beat German Philipp Kohlschreiber 6-3, 7-5 in the first rubber with Daniel Evans taking three sets to see off Jan-Lennard Struff 7-6 (8/6), 3-6, 7-6 (7/2). Andy Murray was rested on Friday but will likely feature in the semi-finals where they face the winner of Spain against Argentina. Rafael Nadal pulled Spain level at 1-1 with Argentina with a 6-1, 6-2 win over Diego Schwartzman. Guido Pella had put the Argentines ahead with a three-set victory over Pablo Carreno 6-7 (3/7), 7-6 (7/4), 6-1. "I was serving well and was playing at a high level, so let's see how it goes," said Nadal when revealing he would line up in the doubles rubber late Friday. Earlier Russia beat Novak Djokovic's Serbia to reach the semi-finals following a cliff-hanger match that went all the way to a deciding tie-breaker. With the quarter-final level at 1-1 following the singles, the Russian pairing of Karen Khachanov and Andrey Rublev faced Djokovic and Viktor Troicki in the deciding rubber. After a see-saw match of high drama, the Russians came out 6-4, 4-6, 7-6 (10/8) winners and face Canada, quarter-final victors over Australia, in Saturday's semi-finals. "It was heads or tails and the coin fell on our side," Rublev said. "God gave me a chance to be a hero," he added. Kachanov was already looking forward to the next match. "We'll have to get it together for Canada," he said of the semi-final. "Luck was on our side here, but this was one of the biggest games of either our careers." Earlier in the day, Rublev won the first singles over Filip Krajinovic 6-1, 6-2 to give Russia a lead, cancelled out later by Djokovic, who overcame Khachanov 6-3, 6-3. The world No.2 Djokovic, winner of 16 Grand Slams said the match had been "a real roller-coaster of a game, very, very emotional and very tense". "Sport is not all about winning and losing but this hurts me personally," said the 32-year-old. "Anyway the season is over now, we'll get over it. Tomorrow is another day."

Britain ease past Germany to join Russia, Canada in Davis Cup semis

The Davis Cup has a new format but <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-guarantees-for-andy-murray-at-davis-cup-smith-263084">Andy Murray's</a> love of a comeback remains intact after the Scot battled from behind to beat Tallon Griekspoor on Wednesday as Great Britain edged past Holland.

Murray came from a set down and then trailed 4-1 in the decider in Madrid before beating the spirited Griekspoor, ranked 179 in the world, 6-7 (7/9), 6-4, 7-6 (7/5).

"I've found a way to win matches many times in my career when I've not been playing well," Murray said. "You can draw on that a little bit."

A scrappy victory gave Great Britain the lead in their opening Group E tie and while Dan Evans lost the second singles rubber to Robin Haase, Jamie Murray and Neal Skupski finished the job in the doubles.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/davis-cup-rafael-nadal-sparks-spanish-comeback-levels-group-b-tie-263277">Rafael Nadal</a> won his 26th consecutive Davis Cup singles match later on Wednesday as Spain booked their place in the quarter-finals with a 3-0 victory over defending champions Croatia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-novak-djokovics-hopes-crushed-as-roger-federer-serves-up-a-masterclass-262232">Novak Djokovic</a>, meanwhile, cruised past Yoshihito Nishioka to help Serbia beat Japan by the same scoreline.

Murray had given short shrift on Tuesday to those he believes have been too quick to criticise the revamped Davis Cup, which for the first time is featuring all 18 World Group countries competing for the trophy across a single week in one venue.&nbsp;

And in what will be music to the ears of the organisers, among them Barcelona footballer Gerard Pique, Murray was full of praise for the atmosphere inside the Caja Magica's cosy Stadium 3.&nbsp;

"The atmosphere was brilliant," Murray said afterwards. "That was the one concern I had about the event, about it being on neutral ground, but it was great."&nbsp;

British fans have been second only to Spanish in terms of tickets sold so far and the strong attendance for Murray's opener inside the tournament's smallest court, with a capacity of 2,500, has not been consistent across other morning matches.&nbsp;

Murray, along with Nadal and Djokovic, is one of the competition's biggest attractions this week and Britain's prospects of progressing to the quater-finals look good ahead of Thursday's tie against Kazakhstan.&nbsp;

It remains to be seen whether Murray plays or is rested against the Kazakhs but he was given a stiff workout by the 23-year-old Griekspoor, who was a surprise pick in the Dutch team ahead of Botic Van de Zandschlup.&nbsp;

"About an hour before the match it changed," said Murray. "I didn't know much about his game."&nbsp;

But Murray again dug deep, his experience and resilience proving the difference as Griekspoor lost his nerve and then the match.&nbsp;

Haase outlasted Evans 6-3, 6-7 (5/7), 6-4 while Jamie Murray and Skupski held on for a 6-4, 7-6 (8/6) win over Wesley Koolhof and Jean-Julien Rojer.

Djokovic enjoyed a more comfortable start as he cruised to a 6-1, 6-2 victory over Nishioka in a straightforward win for Serbia against Japan.&nbsp;

Serbia will play France on Thursday to decide who goes through as winners of Group A.

"It's probably one of the biggest challenges we can have in this competition, playing against France, one of the most successful nations in Davis Cup, and definitely one of the strongest teams," Djokovic said.

Nadal saw off Croatia's Borna Gojo 6-4, 6-3 and then helped Spain win the doubles rubber alongside Marcel Granollers.

Argentina could have secured progress by beating Germany but lost all three matches as Philipp Kohlschreiber beat Guido Pella and Jan-Lennard Struff overcame Diego Schwartzman to establish an unassailable advantage. Germany will advance if they beat Chile on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/canada-finally-beat-us-to-reach-davis-cup-last-eight-263273">Canada are already through</a> and will meet Australia in the last eight on Thursday, after Leyton Hewitt's team beat Belgium 2-1.&nbsp;

The Davis Cup has a new format but Andy Murray's love of a comeback remains intact after the Scot battled from behind to beat Tallon Griekspoor on Wednesday as Great Britain edged past Holland.

The Davis Cup has a new format but Andy Murray's love of a comeback remains intact after the Scot battled from behind to beat Tallon Griekspoor on Wednesday as Great Britain edged past Holland. Murray came from a set down and then trailed 4-1 in the decider in Madrid before beating the spirited Griekspoor, ranked 179 in the world, 6-7 (7/9), 6-4, 7-6 (7/5). "I've found a way to win matches many times in my career when I've not been playing well," Murray said. "You can draw on that a little bit." A scrappy victory gave Great Britain the lead in their opening Group E tie and while Dan Evans lost the second singles rubber to Robin Haase, Jamie Murray and Neal Skupski finished the job in the doubles. Rafael Nadal won his 26th consecutive Davis Cup singles match later on Wednesday as Spain booked their place in the quarter-finals with a 3-0 victory over defending champions Croatia. Novak Djokovic, meanwhile, cruised past Yoshihito Nishioka to help Serbia beat Japan by the same scoreline. Murray had given short shrift on Tuesday to those he believes have been too quick to criticise the revamped Davis Cup, which for the first time is featuring all 18 World Group countries competing for the trophy across a single week in one venue. And in what will be music to the ears of the organisers, among them Barcelona footballer Gerard Pique, Murray was full of praise for the atmosphere inside the Caja Magica's cosy Stadium 3. "The atmosphere was brilliant," Murray said afterwards. "That was the one concern I had about the event, about it being on neutral ground, but it was great." British fans have been second only to Spanish in terms of tickets sold so far and the strong attendance for Murray's opener inside the tournament's smallest court, with a capacity of 2,500, has not been consistent across other morning matches. Murray, along with Nadal and Djokovic, is one of the competition's biggest attractions this week and Britain's prospects of progressing to the quater-finals look good ahead of Thursday's tie against Kazakhstan. It remains to be seen whether Murray plays or is rested against the Kazakhs but he was given a stiff workout by the 23-year-old Griekspoor, who was a surprise pick in the Dutch team ahead of Botic Van de Zandschlup. "About an hour before the match it changed," said Murray. "I didn't know much about his game." But Murray again dug deep, his experience and resilience proving the difference as Griekspoor lost his nerve and then the match. Haase outlasted Evans 6-3, 6-7 (5/7), 6-4 while Jamie Murray and Skupski held on for a 6-4, 7-6 (8/6) win over Wesley Koolhof and Jean-Julien Rojer. Djokovic enjoyed a more comfortable start as he cruised to a 6-1, 6-2 victory over Nishioka in a straightforward win for Serbia against Japan. Serbia will play France on Thursday to decide who goes through as winners of Group A. "It's probably one of the biggest challenges we can have in this competition, playing against France, one of the most successful nations in Davis Cup, and definitely one of the strongest teams," Djokovic said. Nadal saw off Croatia's Borna Gojo 6-4, 6-3 and then helped Spain win the doubles rubber alongside Marcel Granollers. Argentina could have secured progress by beating Germany but lost all three matches as Philipp Kohlschreiber beat Guido Pella and Jan-Lennard Struff overcame Diego Schwartzman to establish an unassailable advantage. Germany will advance if they beat Chile on Thursday. Canada are already through and will meet Australia in the last eight on Thursday, after Leyton Hewitt's team beat Belgium 2-1.

Andy Murray leads Britain to opening Davis Cup win, Spain reach last eight

Andy Murray is a welcome addition to Britain's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-raonic-withdraws-from-canadas-davis-cup-team-261552">Davis Cup</a> team but there is no guarantee the former world number one will play in the singles, team captain Leon Smith has said.

Murray, who underwent hip surgery in January, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-beats-stan-wawrinka-to-win-first-title-since-hip-surgery-257186">won the European Open</a> in Antwerp last month but the three-times Grand Slam champion is the lowest-ranked singles player in the British team at 126 behind Dan Evans (42) and Kyle Edmund (69).

"Any time you can bring Andy into the team is going to make your team better," Smith told reporters. "He's still working his way back to the level he wants to get to, so people have to keep the expectations of the right level of where he's at just now.

"What he did in Antwerp was much talked about and a brilliant step forwards but you do have to remember this is early days in him coming back.

"We've got really good options. With Andy, with Evo (Evans), with Kyle, guys playing a very similar level – and with Jamie (Murray) and Neal (Skupski) we've got strong doubles options."

The revamped Davis Cup format has group stage ties with two singles matches and one doubles match, with Britain drawn alongside Kazakhstan and the Netherlands.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/murray-excited-to-see-what-next-couple-of-years-can-bring-261800">Murray</a>, 32, eased his way back into professional tennis by playing doubles, partnering with older brother Jamie in Washington earlier this year.

Jamie said they would have to "wait and see" if they would pair up again in Madrid.

"It depends on how Andy's feeling physically, what's the best setup for the team on that day," he added.

"But Neal and I have practised all week and we're ready to play if called upon and I hope we'll do a good job for the team."

Andy Murray is a welcome addition to Britain's Davis Cup team but there is no guarantee the former world number one will play in the singles, team captain Leon Smith has said.

Andy Murray is a welcome addition to Britain's Davis Cup team but there is no guarantee the former world number one will play in the singles, team captain Leon Smith has said. Murray, who underwent hip surgery in January, won the European Open in Antwerp last month but the three-times Grand Slam champion is the lowest-ranked singles player in the British team at 126 behind Dan Evans (42) and Kyle Edmund (69). "Any time you can bring Andy into the team is going to make your team better," Smith told reporters. "He's still working his way back to the level he wants to get to, so people have to keep the expectations of the right level of where he's at just now. "What he did in Antwerp was much talked about and a brilliant step forwards but you do have to remember this is early days in him coming back. "We've got really good options. With Andy, with Evo (Evans), with Kyle, guys playing a very similar level – and with Jamie (Murray) and Neal (Skupski) we've got strong doubles options." The revamped Davis Cup format has group stage ties with two singles matches and one doubles match, with Britain drawn alongside Kazakhstan and the Netherlands. Murray, 32, eased his way back into professional tennis by playing doubles, partnering with older brother Jamie in Washington earlier this year. Jamie said they would have to "wait and see" if they would pair up again in Madrid. "It depends on how Andy's feeling physically, what's the best setup for the team on that day," he added. "But Neal and I have practised all week and we're ready to play if called upon and I hope we'll do a good job for the team."

No guarantees for Andy Murray at Davis Cup: Leon Smith

Former world number one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/murray-excited-to-see-what-next-couple-of-years-can-bring-261800">Andy Murray</a> is in line to play Grigor Dimitrov in the opening round of the inaugural&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Cup, with Bulgaria qualifying among the final six teams in the nation-based tournament.

Briton Murray, on the comeback trail after hip surgery, was initially set to face Roger Federer in a blockbuster Group C clash in Sydney but the 20-times Grand Slam champion pulled out of the Jan. 3-12 tournament, making Switzerland ineligible.

Bulgaria has replaced Switzerland in the group, meaning Murray instead faces a prospective match with Dimitrov, dubbed "Baby Fed" for his similar playing style to the Swiss master.

Chile, Poland, Uruguay, Moldova and Norway are the other five teams that qualified for the 24-nation field at the close of the second and final deadline.

The six group winners and the two best second-placed finishers across the groups reach the&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;Finals&nbsp;in Sydney.

Each tie comprises two singles and one double match.

World number one Rafa Nadal kicks off his tournament with Spain in Perth against Group B rivals Japan, Georgia and Uruguay, the tournament draw confirmed on Thursday.

Serbia, led by world number two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-finals-federer-eyes-djokovic-after-rebounding-against-berrettini-261773">Novak Djokovic</a>, play Chile, France and South Africa in Group A in Brisbane.

Russian young gun Daniil Medvedev, beaten in the U.S. Open final by Nadal, will highlight Group D for Russia against the United States, Italy and Norway.

Group F has Germany, Greece, Canada and Australia playing off in Brisbane and boasts a mouthwatering array of young talent.

German world number six Alexander Zverev is likely to feature in the singles along with Greek tyro Stefanos Tsitsipas and tempestuous Australian Nick Kyrgios.

Former world number one Andy Murray is in line to play Grigor Dimitrov in the opening round of the inaugural ATP Cup, with Bulgaria qualifying among the final six teams in the nation-based tournament.

Former world number one Andy Murray is in line to play Grigor Dimitrov in the opening round of the inaugural ATP Cup, with Bulgaria qualifying among the final six teams in the nation-based tournament. Briton Murray, on the comeback trail after hip surgery, was initially set to face Roger Federer in a blockbuster Group C clash in Sydney but the 20-times Grand Slam champion pulled out of the Jan. 3-12 tournament, making Switzerland ineligible. Bulgaria has replaced Switzerland in the group, meaning Murray instead faces a prospective match with Dimitrov, dubbed "Baby Fed" for his similar playing style to the Swiss master. Chile, Poland, Uruguay, Moldova and Norway are the other five teams that qualified for the 24-nation field at the close of the second and final deadline. The six group winners and the two best second-placed finishers across the groups reach the ATP Cup Finals in Sydney. Each tie comprises two singles and one double match. World number one Rafa Nadal kicks off his tournament with Spain in Perth against Group B rivals Japan, Georgia and Uruguay, the tournament draw confirmed on Thursday. Serbia, led by world number two Novak Djokovic, play Chile, France and South Africa in Group A in Brisbane. Russian young gun Daniil Medvedev, beaten in the U.S. Open final by Nadal, will highlight Group D for Russia against the United States, Italy and Norway. Group F has Germany, Greece, Canada and Australia playing off in Brisbane and boasts a mouthwatering array of young talent. German world number six Alexander Zverev is likely to feature in the singles along with Greek tyro Stefanos Tsitsipas and tempestuous Australian Nick Kyrgios.

Murray faces 'Baby Fed' instead of Federer at ATP Cup

&nbsp;Former world number one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../andy-murray-beats-stan-wawrinka-to-win-first- title-since-hip-surgery-257186">Andy&nbsp;Murray</a>&nbsp;is&nbsp;excited&nbsp;to&nbsp;see&nbsp;what&nbsp;he&nbsp;can&nbsp;achieve over the&nbsp;next&nbsp;couple&nbsp;of&nbsp;years&nbsp;after returning to the tour following hip resurfacing surgery but he will not be setting any lofty targets.

The 32-year-old Briton looked on the verge of ending his career at the start of the year but after undergoing surgery in January, he has returned in impressive fashion.

After initially playing doubles at Queen's Club, where he won the title alongside Feliciano Lopez, and Wimbledon,&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;has exceeded expectations on the singles court and won the title in Antwerp last month, beating Stan Wawrinka in the final.

Murray, ranked 125th, will end his season at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../tennis-raonic-withdraws-from-canadas-davis- cup-team-261552">Davis Cup</a> Finals&nbsp;next&nbsp;week before turning his thoughts to&nbsp;next&nbsp;year's Australian Open having thought this year's appearance in Melbourne was probably his last.

"I'm very lucky I get that chance again in January if I stay fit in the&nbsp;next&nbsp;couple&nbsp;of months and it'll be fun to&nbsp;see&nbsp;what&nbsp;I&nbsp;can&nbsp;do,"&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;told British media on Tuesday.

"It has been an up and down few&nbsp;years&nbsp;but I feel like I'm coming through the other side of it and&nbsp;excited&nbsp;to&nbsp;see&nbsp;what&nbsp;I&nbsp;can&nbsp;do over the&nbsp;next&nbsp;couple&nbsp;of&nbsp;years.

"It's difficult to say exactly where I am. I'm not where I was when I was 25 but I don't expect to be and don't need to be (in order) to be competitive at the highest level. That's why I'm&nbsp;excited."

Murray's European Open title in Antwerp, his first since March 2017, has given him the belief that he could beat the likes of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../atp-finals-federer-eyes-djokovic-after- rebounding-against-berrettini-261773">Rafael Nadal</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../atp-finals-federer-eyes-djokovic-after- rebounding-against-berrettini-261773">Novak Djokovic</a> -- a notion that would have appeared impossible a few months ago.

"I know if I played against the top players tomorrow there would be a very small chance of me winning that match," he said. "But I do feel I could win.

"That's one of the performance goals I want -- when I go out on court against all of the players I want to feel like I have a chance of winning."

Murray, whose wife Kim gave birth to their third child a few weeks ago, says the main priority is to continue playing pain free and enjoying the battle.

"I'm not going to set a target of top 10 or trying to make the semis of a Grand Slam because I've done all of that before and I don't need that," he said.

"So if I'm 30 in the world or 70 in the world but I'm still enjoying it and still enjoying the preparations and training and I feel competitive then that would be success for me."

Former world number one Andy Murray is excited to see what he can achieve over the next couple of years after returning to the tour following hip resurfacing surgery but he will not be setting any lofty targets.

Former world number one Andy Murray is excited to see what he can achieve over the next couple of years after returning to the tour following hip resurfacing surgery but he will not be setting any lofty targets. The 32-year-old Briton looked on the verge of ending his career at the start of the year but after undergoing surgery in January, he has returned in impressive fashion. After initially playing doubles at Queen's Club, where he won the title alongside Feliciano Lopez, and Wimbledon, Murray has exceeded expectations on the singles court and won the title in Antwerp last month, beating Stan Wawrinka in the final. Murray, ranked 125th, will end his season at the Davis Cup Finals next week before turning his thoughts to next year's Australian Open having thought this year's appearance in Melbourne was probably his last. "I'm very lucky I get that chance again in January if I stay fit in the next couple of months and it'll be fun to see what I can do," Murray told British media on Tuesday. "It has been an up and down few years but I feel like I'm coming through the other side of it and excited to see what I can do over the next couple of years. "It's difficult to say exactly where I am. I'm not where I was when I was 25 but I don't expect to be and don't need to be (in order) to be competitive at the highest level. That's why I'm excited." Murray's European Open title in Antwerp, his first since March 2017, has given him the belief that he could beat the likes of Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic -- a notion that would have appeared impossible a few months ago. "I know if I played against the top players tomorrow there would be a very small chance of me winning that match," he said. "But I do feel I could win. "That's one of the performance goals I want -- when I go out on court against all of the players I want to feel like I have a chance of winning." Murray, whose wife Kim gave birth to their third child a few weeks ago, says the main priority is to continue playing pain free and enjoying the battle. "I'm not going to set a target of top 10 or trying to make the semis of a Grand Slam because I've done all of that before and I don't need that," he said. "So if I'm 30 in the world or 70 in the world but I'm still enjoying it and still enjoying the preparations and training and I feel competitive then that would be success for me."

Andy Murray excited to see what next couple of years can bring

Andy Murray claimed his first ATP title since having career-saving hip surgery as he fought off Stan Wawrinka in an engrossing duel in the European Open final in Antwerp on Sunday.

Former world number one Murray, who appeared on the brink of retirement after losing in the first round of the Australian Open in January, battled back from a set and a break down to win 3-6 6-4 6-4.

In the first final between the pair for 11 years it was 34-year-old Wawrinka, who has also suffered injury problems, who appeared on course for victory when he had points for a double break in the second set, having powered through the first.

But Murray, 32, who opted to have hip resurfacing surgery after the Australian Open and only returned to court in June, initially in doubles, displayed his old fighting qualities and no sign of any physical problems as he roared back to claim a 46th career title.

The deciding set was littered with service breaks but Murray crucially saved breakpoints at 4-4 and then pounced when Wawrinka served in the next game, sealing the title as his tiring Swiss opponent blazed a forehand wide.

"It's amazing to be back playing against Stan in a final like that, he was playing unbelievable," Murray, who appeared close to tears at the end, said on court.

"I never expected to be in this position so I'm very happy. Stan was hitting winners from everywhere but I managed to hang in there. This is one of my biggest wins after everything."

Murray's last title came in Dubai in March 2017 when he was still the top-ranked player in the world.

The Scot is attempting to defy conventional wisdom as no player has ever returned from such a hip procedure to the top levels in singles. He has been picking up encouraging victories of late and reached the quarter-finals of the China Open but Wawrinka was by far his biggest win since returning.

Wawrinka, who had knee surgery two years ago, broke Murray's serve in the second game of the match and dominated many of the rallies with his backhand punching holes in Murray's guard.

Two backhand winners gave Wawrinka a break for 2-1 in the second set and he then had Murray 15-40 down at 1-3.

Murray survived through and became increasingly fired-up as Wawrinka's serve began to cool off.

He broke back, then saved a breakpoint at 4-4 when he challenged an "out" call on a forehand before winning the replayed point and letting out a huge roar.

Two rasping backhands secured Murray the set on Wawrinka's serve and the decider was a real scrap between the old warriors.

Murray had more in the tank though as he took his career record over Wawrinka to 12-8.

The Scot is about to become a father for the third time and joked that his family has grown since his enforced time away from the match court.

"I've got a third one coming so I will have three kids under four years old," Murray said.

"When I have been off Tour my family has got bigger so I need to get back on the road so we don't get out of control."

Andy Murray claimed his first ATP title since having career-saving hip surgery as he fought off Stan Wawrinka in an engrossing duel in the European Open final in Antwerp on Sunday.

Andy Murray claimed his first ATP title since having career-saving hip surgery as he fought off Stan Wawrinka in an engrossing duel in the European Open final in Antwerp on Sunday. Former world number one Murray, who appeared on the brink of retirement after losing in the first round of the Australian Open in January, battled back from a set and a break down to win 3-6 6-4 6-4. In the first final between the pair for 11 years it was 34-year-old Wawrinka, who has also suffered injury problems, who appeared on course for victory when he had points for a double break in the second set, having powered through the first. But Murray, 32, who opted to have hip resurfacing surgery after the Australian Open and only returned to court in June, initially in doubles, displayed his old fighting qualities and no sign of any physical problems as he roared back to claim a 46th career title. The deciding set was littered with service breaks but Murray crucially saved breakpoints at 4-4 and then pounced when Wawrinka served in the next game, sealing the title as his tiring Swiss opponent blazed a forehand wide. "It's amazing to be back playing against Stan in a final like that, he was playing unbelievable," Murray, who appeared close to tears at the end, said on court. "I never expected to be in this position so I'm very happy. Stan was hitting winners from everywhere but I managed to hang in there. This is one of my biggest wins after everything." Murray's last title came in Dubai in March 2017 when he was still the top-ranked player in the world. The Scot is attempting to defy conventional wisdom as no player has ever returned from such a hip procedure to the top levels in singles. He has been picking up encouraging victories of late and reached the quarter-finals of the China Open but Wawrinka was by far his biggest win since returning. Wawrinka, who had knee surgery two years ago, broke Murray's serve in the second game of the match and dominated many of the rallies with his backhand punching holes in Murray's guard. Two backhand winners gave Wawrinka a break for 2-1 in the second set and he then had Murray 15-40 down at 1-3. Murray survived through and became increasingly fired-up as Wawrinka's serve began to cool off. He broke back, then saved a breakpoint at 4-4 when he challenged an "out" call on a forehand before winning the replayed point and letting out a huge roar. Two rasping backhands secured Murray the set on Wawrinka's serve and the decider was a real scrap between the old warriors. Murray had more in the tank though as he took his career record over Wawrinka to 12-8. The Scot is about to become a father for the third time and joked that his family has grown since his enforced time away from the match court. "I've got a third one coming so I will have three kids under four years old," Murray said. "When I have been off Tour my family has got bigger so I need to get back on the road so we don't get out of control."

Andy Murray beats Stan Wawrinka to win first title since hip surgery

Andy Murray battled past Romanian qualifier Marius Copil 6-3 6-7(7) 6-4 at the European Open in Antwerp on Friday to reach his first singles semi-final in two years.

The Briton, back on the ATP Tour after a career-saving hip resurfacing operation in January, was on course for a straight-sets victory but Copil was determined to test his opponent's resolve and clawed his way back to force a third set.

Murray came through with flying colours, converting five out of 14 breakpoints and winning 87 per cent&nbsp;of points on his first serve in the match that lasted two hours and 35 minutes to reach his first singles semi-finals since the French Open in 2017.

Up next for the 32-year-old is Guido Pella or Ugo Humbert who were in action in the other quarter-final.

After cruising through the first set, three-times Grand Slam champion Murray raced ahead 3-1 in the second before suffering a lapse in concentration while serving for the match at 5-3.

A double fault by the Briton handed Copil the break and the Romanian took full advantage to drag the contest into a decider after edging the second set in a tiebreak.

The pair were locked at 4-4 in the final set before Murray switched gears to close out the victory in style, finishing it off with his ninth ace.

"I haven't played loads of matches the past few years, so when you get to the end of the match, it's always difficult to serve it out," Murray said in a courtside interview.

"I played a bad game at 5-3 in the second set and after that, I think he gained a lot of confidence. He served extremely well.

"He was being a lot more aggressive at the end of the second set and in the third, but thankfully I managed to get the break right at the end. It was a tough one to get through."

Earlier, Swiss Stan Wawrinka wasted a match point in the second set before outlasting Gilles Simon 6-3 6-7(6) 6-2 to reach his first semi-final since February.

In the last hour, he plays Italian Jannik Sinner in a rematch of their US&nbsp;Open first-round meeting earlier this year after the talented 18-year-old defeated American Frances Tiafoe 6-4 3-6 6-3.

Andy Murray battled past Romanian qualifier Marius Copil 6-3 6-7(7) 6-4 at the European Open in Antwerp on Friday to reach his first singles semi-final in two years.

Andy Murray battled past Romanian qualifier Marius Copil 6-3 6-7(7) 6-4 at the European Open in Antwerp on Friday to reach his first singles semi-final in two years. The Briton, back on the ATP Tour after a career-saving hip resurfacing operation in January, was on course for a straight-sets victory but Copil was determined to test his opponent's resolve and clawed his way back to force a third set. Murray came through with flying colours, converting five out of 14 breakpoints and winning 87 per cent of points on his first serve in the match that lasted two hours and 35 minutes to reach his first singles semi-finals since the French Open in 2017. Up next for the 32-year-old is Guido Pella or Ugo Humbert who were in action in the other quarter-final. After cruising through the first set, three-times Grand Slam champion Murray raced ahead 3-1 in the second before suffering a lapse in concentration while serving for the match at 5-3. A double fault by the Briton handed Copil the break and the Romanian took full advantage to drag the contest into a decider after edging the second set in a tiebreak. The pair were locked at 4-4 in the final set before Murray switched gears to close out the victory in style, finishing it off with his ninth ace. "I haven't played loads of matches the past few years, so when you get to the end of the match, it's always difficult to serve it out," Murray said in a courtside interview. "I played a bad game at 5-3 in the second set and after that, I think he gained a lot of confidence. He served extremely well. "He was being a lot more aggressive at the end of the second set and in the third, but thankfully I managed to get the break right at the end. It was a tough one to get through." Earlier, Swiss Stan Wawrinka wasted a match point in the second set before outlasting Gilles Simon 6-3 6-7(6) 6-2 to reach his first semi-final since February. In the last hour, he plays Italian Jannik Sinner in a rematch of their US Open first-round meeting earlier this year after the talented 18-year-old defeated American Frances Tiafoe 6-4 3-6 6-3.

Andy Murray shines in Antwerp to reach first semi-final in two years

Former world number one Andy&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;told Fabio&nbsp;Fognini&nbsp;to "shut up" before losing to the fiery Italian 7-6(4) 2-6 7-6(2) in an ill-tempered second-round clash at the&nbsp;Shanghai&nbsp;Masters on Tuesday.

Murray, 32, lost a tetchy battle with world number 12 in which the Briton twice failed to serve out the match.

He confronted&nbsp;Fognini&nbsp;at the net in a lengthy exchange in which he accused the Italian of making a noise to put him off when he was playing a shot.

Three-times Grand Slam champion&nbsp;Murray, who underwent a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-hopes-to-be-fit-enough-by-next-year-to-play-roger-federer-rafael-nadal-249345">career-saving hip resurfacing procedure</a> in January, showed some encouraging signs as he continued his injury comeback before losing in just over three hours.

"There is a lot of things that I need to get better at, and I can do much better," said&nbsp;Murray.

"I will go away and I'll work on those things and be in a better position next time I play against him."

Roger Federer eased past Albert Ramos-Vinolas 6-2 7-6(5) to reach the last-16, avenging a&nbsp;defeat&nbsp;to the Spaniard in their last meeting at the same stage of the tournament in 2015.

Second seed Federer, who received a first-round bye, broke Ramos-Vinolas twice in the opening set and sailed through his service games without facing a breakpoint in the match.

Ramos-Vinolas, who upset Federer four years ago to snap a 15-match losing streak against top-10 players, recovered well to force a second-set tiebreak but his Swiss opponent came back from 4-1 down to seal victory.

"I focussed because when you travel around the globe, you're missing a bit of energy. Those first few games or matches can be sometimes a bit tricky," Federer said.

"Serve was solid. I was hitting my spots and really was never in trouble there. But of course all of a sudden, being in a breaker, calls out for different play sometimes and different momentum.

"He had his chances, but it was a nice comeback for me, and overall."

Federer, a twice&nbsp;Shanghai&nbsp;champion, next meets Belgian David Goffin or Kazakh Mikhail Kukushkin for a quarter-final spot.

Former world number one Andy Murray told Fabio Fognini to "shut up" before losing to the fiery Italian 7-6(4) 2-6 7-6(2) in an ill-tempered second-round clash at the Shanghai Masters on Tuesday.

Former world number one Andy Murray told Fabio Fognini to "shut up" before losing to the fiery Italian 7-6(4) 2-6 7-6(2) in an ill-tempered second-round clash at the Shanghai Masters on Tuesday. Murray, 32, lost a tetchy battle with world number 12 in which the Briton twice failed to serve out the match. He confronted Fognini at the net in a lengthy exchange in which he accused the Italian of making a noise to put him off when he was playing a shot. Three-times Grand Slam champion Murray, who underwent a career-saving hip resurfacing procedure in January, showed some encouraging signs as he continued his injury comeback before losing in just over three hours. "There is a lot of things that I need to get better at, and I can do much better," said Murray. "I will go away and I'll work on those things and be in a better position next time I play against him." Roger Federer eased past Albert Ramos-Vinolas 6-2 7-6(5) to reach the last-16, avenging a defeat to the Spaniard in their last meeting at the same stage of the tournament in 2015. Second seed Federer, who received a first-round bye, broke Ramos-Vinolas twice in the opening set and sailed through his service games without facing a breakpoint in the match. Ramos-Vinolas, who upset Federer four years ago to snap a 15-match losing streak against top-10 players, recovered well to force a second-set tiebreak but his Swiss opponent came back from 4-1 down to seal victory. "I focussed because when you travel around the globe, you're missing a bit of energy. Those first few games or matches can be sometimes a bit tricky," Federer said. "Serve was solid. I was hitting my spots and really was never in trouble there. But of course all of a sudden, being in a breaker, calls out for different play sometimes and different momentum. "He had his chances, but it was a nice comeback for me, and overall." Federer, a twice Shanghai champion, next meets Belgian David Goffin or Kazakh Mikhail Kukushkin for a quarter-final spot.

Murray fumes at Fognini, loses in Shanghai Masters

Andy Murray will make his Grand Slam return at the Australian Open in January, a year after career-saving hip surgery, tournament organisers announced Tuesday.

The British three-time major winner has been slowly working his way back to fitness and is now ranked 289th, up from 503rd just a week ago.

Murray, 32, won his opening match at the Shanghai Masters on Monday, beating Argentine qualifier Juan Ignacio Londero in three sets, following a quarter-final appearance in Beijing last week.

With his confidence seemingly growing by the day, Australian Open organisers said the former world number one had committed to extending his comeback into the majors in January.

"Confirmed: Andy Murray will return to compete at the #AusOpen in 2020," they tweeted.

The official Australian Open website said Murray "will return to the main draw with a protected ranking of number two and restored physical powers".

He has made the final five times at Melbourne Park, losing four times to Novak Djokovic and once to Roger Federer.

However, arguably his most heartbreaking moment at the season-opening Grand Slam came not on the court but at an emotional press conference before this year's tournament.

Murray broke down in tears describing how the pain in his right hip, which had been operated on six months earlier, had become unbearable.

"I can play with limitations. But having the limitations and the pain is not allowing me to enjoy competing or training," he said, later revealing that even walking his dog had become a gruelling ordeal.

Tributes flowed for the well-liked Scot, with Billie Jean King called him "a champion on and off-court".

Players also farewelled him in an emotional video screened on centre court after he lost an epic five-setter to Roberto Bautista Agut, with most believing his Grand Slam career was over.

"It's very sad that you have to take that position, but sometimes life is not perfect," Rafael Nadal said. "I just want to say thanks for the things that you gave to our sport."

But the match against Bautista Agut rekindled Murray's competitive spark and he opted to fight on and undergo hip resurfacing surgery.

American doubles legend Bob Bryan had endured the procedure -- which involves inserting an artificial hip implant with a rod that goes right down to the femur -- and warned Murray there would be no easy road back.

"No one's ever come back with this surgery on the singles court," he said at the time, adding that if anyone could do it a renowned fighter like Murray was prime candidate.

Murray said after his win over Londero that his movement on the court felt like it was steadily improving.

"In the beginning I didn't necessarily feel good, but last couple of weeks have been I think much improved," he said.

In 2013, Murray became the first British man to win Wimbledon for 77 years, ending the nation's obsession with finding a champion to follow in the footsteps of Fred Perry.

He repeated the feat in 2016, adding to a glittering career that also includes the 2012 US Open, two Olympic gold medals and 45 ATP crowns.

Australian Open organisers hope there will be another blast from the past if Belgium's Kim Clijsters can meet her goal of taking to the court again in January after an absence of more than seven years.

A crowd favourite in Melbourne, the 36-year-old retired to have a family but made a surprise announcement last month that she was making a comeback in 2020.

Clijsters has won four Grand Slams, including the 2011 Australian Open.

Andy Murray will make his Grand Slam return at the Australian Open in January, a year after career-saving hip surgery, tournament organisers announced Tuesday. The British three-time major winner has been slowly working his way back to fitness and is now ranked 289th, up from 503rd just a week ago.

Andy Murray will make his Grand Slam return at the Australian Open in January, a year after career-saving hip surgery, tournament organisers announced Tuesday. The British three-time major winner has been slowly working his way back to fitness and is now ranked 289th, up from 503rd just a week ago. Murray, 32, won his opening match at the Shanghai Masters on Monday, beating Argentine qualifier Juan Ignacio Londero in three sets, following a quarter-final appearance in Beijing last week. With his confidence seemingly growing by the day, Australian Open organisers said the former world number one had committed to extending his comeback into the majors in January. "Confirmed: Andy Murray will return to compete at the #AusOpen in 2020," they tweeted. The official Australian Open website said Murray "will return to the main draw with a protected ranking of number two and restored physical powers". He has made the final five times at Melbourne Park, losing four times to Novak Djokovic and once to Roger Federer. However, arguably his most heartbreaking moment at the season-opening Grand Slam came not on the court but at an emotional press conference before this year's tournament. Murray broke down in tears describing how the pain in his right hip, which had been operated on six months earlier, had become unbearable. "I can play with limitations. But having the limitations and the pain is not allowing me to enjoy competing or training," he said, later revealing that even walking his dog had become a gruelling ordeal. Tributes flowed for the well-liked Scot, with Billie Jean King called him "a champion on and off-court". Players also farewelled him in an emotional video screened on centre court after he lost an epic five-setter to Roberto Bautista Agut, with most believing his Grand Slam career was over. "It's very sad that you have to take that position, but sometimes life is not perfect," Rafael Nadal said. "I just want to say thanks for the things that you gave to our sport." But the match against Bautista Agut rekindled Murray's competitive spark and he opted to fight on and undergo hip resurfacing surgery. American doubles legend Bob Bryan had endured the procedure -- which involves inserting an artificial hip implant with a rod that goes right down to the femur -- and warned Murray there would be no easy road back. "No one's ever come back with this surgery on the singles court," he said at the time, adding that if anyone could do it a renowned fighter like Murray was prime candidate. Murray said after his win over Londero that his movement on the court felt like it was steadily improving. "In the beginning I didn't necessarily feel good, but last couple of weeks have been I think much improved," he said. In 2013, Murray became the first British man to win Wimbledon for 77 years, ending the nation's obsession with finding a champion to follow in the footsteps of Fred Perry. He repeated the feat in 2016, adding to a glittering career that also includes the 2012 US Open, two Olympic gold medals and 45 ATP crowns. Australian Open organisers hope there will be another blast from the past if Belgium's Kim Clijsters can meet her goal of taking to the court again in January after an absence of more than seven years. A crowd favourite in Melbourne, the 36-year-old retired to have a family but made a surprise announcement last month that she was making a comeback in 2020. Clijsters has won four Grand Slams, including the 2011 Australian Open.

Andy Murray to make Grand Slam return at Australian Open

Former world number one Andy Murray won his first ATP tour singles match in nearly nine months with a 6-3 6-7(6) 6-1 victory over American Tennys Sandgren in the opening round of the Zhuhai Championships on Tuesday.

Murray, whose last win on the tour came in Brisbane prior to the Australian Open, did win twice at the Rafa Nadal Open — a second-tier ATP Challenger Tour event — last month before opting to return to the ATP tour for the Asian swing.

"After the operation in January it's been difficult and it was undecided at times about whether I wanted to keep going or not," Murray told reporters after claiming his first win on the tour since a hip resurfacing procedure that threatened to end his career prematurely.

"But I'm really glad that I can actually get the win today and hopefully I'll be able to keep going.

"Tonight I was hitting the ball well, movement was I think pretty good... I served well. Obviously there's things that I feel I can do better, but it was definitely progress.

"Now I'm tired and fatigued. (My) muscles are tired from playing the match, but in terms of how my hip feels, that feels really good."

Murray made his return to the circuit during the grasscourt swing earlier this year but only played doubles before his singles comeback at the Cincinnati Masters and the Winston-Salem Open ended in first-round defeats.

The 32-year-old fired 13 aces and did not face a single breakpoint in the match that lasted two hours and 41 minutes in humid conditions.

Murray had the opportunity to win in straight sets when he had a match point at 6-5 in the second-set tiebreak, but Sandgren won the next three points to take it into the deciding set.

However, Sandgren struggled in the third set, dropping serve twice to give Murray a 4-0 lead and the American also needed a long medical timeout to have his foot strapped.

Sandgren, currently ranked 344 places above Murray, managed to hold serve once but it did not prevent a visibly exhausted Murray from serving out the match to set up a last-16 clash with seventh seed Alex De Minaur.

Former world number one Andy Murray won his first ATP tour singles match in nearly nine months with a 6-3 6-7(6) 6-1 victory over American Tennys Sandgren in the opening round of the Zhuhai Championships on Tuesday.

Former world number one Andy Murray won his first ATP tour singles match in nearly nine months with a 6-3 6-7(6) 6-1 victory over American Tennys Sandgren in the opening round of the Zhuhai Championships on Tuesday. Murray, whose last win on the tour came in Brisbane prior to the Australian Open, did win twice at the Rafa Nadal Open — a second-tier ATP Challenger Tour event — last month before opting to return to the ATP tour for the Asian swing. "After the operation in January it's been difficult and it was undecided at times about whether I wanted to keep going or not," Murray told reporters after claiming his first win on the tour since a hip resurfacing procedure that threatened to end his career prematurely. "But I'm really glad that I can actually get the win today and hopefully I'll be able to keep going. "Tonight I was hitting the ball well, movement was I think pretty good... I served well. Obviously there's things that I feel I can do better, but it was definitely progress. "Now I'm tired and fatigued. (My) muscles are tired from playing the match, but in terms of how my hip feels, that feels really good." Murray made his return to the circuit during the grasscourt swing earlier this year but only played doubles before his singles comeback at the Cincinnati Masters and the Winston-Salem Open ended in first-round defeats. The 32-year-old fired 13 aces and did not face a single breakpoint in the match that lasted two hours and 41 minutes in humid conditions. Murray had the opportunity to win in straight sets when he had a match point at 6-5 in the second-set tiebreak, but Sandgren won the next three points to take it into the deciding set. However, Sandgren struggled in the third set, dropping serve twice to give Murray a 4-0 lead and the American also needed a long medical timeout to have his foot strapped. Sandgren, currently ranked 344 places above Murray, managed to hold serve once but it did not prevent a visibly exhausted Murray from serving out the match to set up a last-16 clash with seventh seed Alex De Minaur.

Andy Murray battles to first singles win on tour since January in Zhuhai

Former world number one Andy Murray said he still needs four or five months to play top-level tennis so that he can again take on old rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal after career-saving hip surgery earlier this year.

The 32-year-old is regaining his fitness after a hip resurfacing procedure in January, and late last month recorded the first two victories of his singles comeback at the Rafa Nadal Open Challenger tournament in Mallorca before making a third-round exit.

Briton Murray, who has dropped to 415 in the world rankings, will next compete in Zhuhai, Beijing and Shanghai in the Asian swing of the ATP tour this year, but the three-times major winner thinks that it will be 2020 before he is "maybe" able to face the challenge of playing Federer or Nadal.

"For years... I competed against them, although I haven't won every time. I've lost more than I've won but I always went out onto court feeling I could win," Murray told Sky Sports.

"I don't know if I'd enjoy going out on court against them knowing I'm going to lose or feeling like I had no chance. That would probably be psychologically challenging... I need to be patient and not expect too much too soon.

"But maybe in four or five months, I can get there. In terms of how I'm hitting the ball in practice... the skill is still there. I physically need to get a little better and hopefully over time I get a little bit faster... I think I will."

Murray is hopeful of being picked in Britain's Davis Cup team for the November&nbsp;18-24 Finals in Madrid, adding he would be happy playing only doubles if necessary.

"If I'm selected I'll play. I don't want to play or be selected just because four years ago I played really well," Murray, who guided Britain to the title in 2015, added.

"I'd like to help and be in the team and play singles, but if I was asked to play doubles I'd probably do that."

Former world number one Andy Murray said he still needs four or five months to play top-level tennis so that he can again take on old rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal after career-saving hip surgery earlier this year.

Former world number one Andy Murray said he still needs four or five months to play top-level tennis so that he can again take on old rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal after career-saving hip surgery earlier this year. The 32-year-old is regaining his fitness after a hip resurfacing procedure in January, and late last month recorded the first two victories of his singles comeback at the Rafa Nadal Open Challenger tournament in Mallorca before making a third-round exit. Briton Murray, who has dropped to 415 in the world rankings, will next compete in Zhuhai, Beijing and Shanghai in the Asian swing of the ATP tour this year, but the three-times major winner thinks that it will be 2020 before he is "maybe" able to face the challenge of playing Federer or Nadal. "For years... I competed against them, although I haven't won every time. I've lost more than I've won but I always went out onto court feeling I could win," Murray told Sky Sports. "I don't know if I'd enjoy going out on court against them knowing I'm going to lose or feeling like I had no chance. That would probably be psychologically challenging... I need to be patient and not expect too much too soon. "But maybe in four or five months, I can get there. In terms of how I'm hitting the ball in practice... the skill is still there. I physically need to get a little better and hopefully over time I get a little bit faster... I think I will." Murray is hopeful of being picked in Britain's Davis Cup team for the November 18-24 Finals in Madrid, adding he would be happy playing only doubles if necessary. "If I'm selected I'll play. I don't want to play or be selected just because four years ago I played really well," Murray, who guided Britain to the title in 2015, added. "I'd like to help and be in the team and play singles, but if I was asked to play doubles I'd probably do that."

Andy Murray hopes to be fit enough by next year to play Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal

It was a match in name only and the setting was a world away from the US&nbsp;Open that started on Monday but Andy Murray cared not a jot as he notched his first singles win since returning from career-saving hip surgery.

The 32-year-old former world number one crushed teenage French novice Imran Sibille 6-0, 6-1 to move into the second round of the Rafa Nadal Open Challenger tournament, barely perspiring on a sultry Mallorcan evening.

Murray, who had hip resurfacing surgery in January, opted against competing at Flushing Meadows, dropping down to the ATP's second-tier circuit for the first time since 2005 to continue his comeback. Big Apple it was not, but he was not slumming it.

The Rafa Nadal Academy on the edge of 18-time Grand Slam champion Nadal's home town of Manacor is a plush state-of-the-art facility backed by olive-green hills.

Word of Murray's late decision to accept an entry had spectators, many of them breaking off from the beach, packed in around the showcourt to watch the three-time Grand Slam champion's 42-minute hardcourt exhibition.

Sibille, who trains at the academy, has no ATP ranking and has earned $150 from tennis. He may look back on his clash with Murray as the highlight of his career.

For Murray it was a taste of the winning feeling, something he has not experienced in singles since January in Brisbane, shortly before a tearful first-round exit at the Australian Open when it appeared a flaking hip would end his career.

Far bigger tests of that metal-coated joint await, including on Tuesday when he faces third seed Norbert Gombos of Slovakia, the world number 115, but Murray is back.

Healing Muscles

"I need to get a bit quicker, and get a little bit more match fit before I'm back competing at that level again," Murray told reporters. "That's why I decided to drop down a level and try to get some more matches in.

"It's still only seven months since my surgery and I was told that nine to 12 months after you will still be seeing improvements, muscles will still be healing and recovering so hoping by the end of this year I will be feeling better."

Murray played in second gear throughout and even resisted the temptation to claim a "double bagel" when he casually netted a forehand in the 12th game to hand Sibille a game -- cue the biggest cheer of the evening.

While he was never stretched, Murray moved well, although he says improvements are required, especially when forced to change direction quickly.

The physical battle is not the only challenge, however. Regaining his old aura will be equally challenging.

Murray, who has 45 career titles to his name, 663 Tour match wins and more than $61 million in prize money, lost first round matches to Richard Gasquet and Tennys Sangdren in Cincinnati and Winston-Salem this month -- his first ATP singles matches in a comeback most notable so far for winning the doubles title at Queen's Club with Spain's Feliciano Lopez.

While 17-year-old Sibille admitted to not sleeping a wink after finding out he was playing Murray at 6pm the previous night, more grizzled opponents will not be intimidated.

"I do feel that it's something that can come back quickly," Murray, now ranked 328, said.

"Maybe the first few matches it's a good opportunity for guys to play me because I'm not playing as well or moving as well as I was a few years ago.

"But I'm hoping that all it will take is one big tournament to get that confidence and that aura back and hopefully that will happen sooner rather than later."

It was a match in name only and the setting was a world away from the US Open that started on Monday but Andy Murray cared not a jot as he notched his first singles win since returning from career-saving hip surgery.

It was a match in name only and the setting was a world away from the US Open that started on Monday but Andy Murray cared not a jot as he notched his first singles win since returning from career-saving hip surgery. The 32-year-old former world number one crushed teenage French novice Imran Sibille 6-0, 6-1 to move into the second round of the Rafa Nadal Open Challenger tournament, barely perspiring on a sultry Mallorcan evening. Murray, who had hip resurfacing surgery in January, opted against competing at Flushing Meadows, dropping down to the ATP's second-tier circuit for the first time since 2005 to continue his comeback. Big Apple it was not, but he was not slumming it. The Rafa Nadal Academy on the edge of 18-time Grand Slam champion Nadal's home town of Manacor is a plush state-of-the-art facility backed by olive-green hills. Word of Murray's late decision to accept an entry had spectators, many of them breaking off from the beach, packed in around the showcourt to watch the three-time Grand Slam champion's 42-minute hardcourt exhibition. Sibille, who trains at the academy, has no ATP ranking and has earned $150 from tennis. He may look back on his clash with Murray as the highlight of his career. For Murray it was a taste of the winning feeling, something he has not experienced in singles since January in Brisbane, shortly before a tearful first-round exit at the Australian Open when it appeared a flaking hip would end his career. Far bigger tests of that metal-coated joint await, including on Tuesday when he faces third seed Norbert Gombos of Slovakia, the world number 115, but Murray is back. Healing Muscles "I need to get a bit quicker, and get a little bit more match fit before I'm back competing at that level again," Murray told reporters. "That's why I decided to drop down a level and try to get some more matches in. "It's still only seven months since my surgery and I was told that nine to 12 months after you will still be seeing improvements, muscles will still be healing and recovering so hoping by the end of this year I will be feeling better." Murray played in second gear throughout and even resisted the temptation to claim a "double bagel" when he casually netted a forehand in the 12th game to hand Sibille a game -- cue the biggest cheer of the evening. While he was never stretched, Murray moved well, although he says improvements are required, especially when forced to change direction quickly. The physical battle is not the only challenge, however. Regaining his old aura will be equally challenging. Murray, who has 45 career titles to his name, 663 Tour match wins and more than $61 million in prize money, lost first round matches to Richard Gasquet and Tennys Sangdren in Cincinnati and Winston-Salem this month -- his first ATP singles matches in a comeback most notable so far for winning the doubles title at Queen's Club with Spain's Feliciano Lopez. While 17-year-old Sibille admitted to not sleeping a wink after finding out he was playing Murray at 6pm the previous night, more grizzled opponents will not be intimidated. "I do feel that it's something that can come back quickly," Murray, now ranked 328, said. "Maybe the first few matches it's a good opportunity for guys to play me because I'm not playing as well or moving as well as I was a few years ago. "But I'm hoping that all it will take is one big tournament to get that confidence and that aura back and hopefully that will happen sooner rather than later."

Andy Murray enjoys first singles win since hip surgery

Andy&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;on Monday fell in the first round of the ATP Winston-Salem Open, where the three-time Grand Slam champion was giving his surgically repaired hip just its second test in singles.

Britain's&nbsp;Murray, who feared in January that his hip trouble would end his career, accepted a wild card into this week's tournament in North Carolina after falling in his singles comeback in Cincinnati last week.

He again showed glimpses of his once-dominant self, but was inconsistent in a 7-6 (10-8), 7-5 loss to 73rd-ranked American Tennys Sandgren in a match lasting 2 hours and 10 minutes.

"Some things were a bit better today I think,"&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;said. "I was hitting the ball a bit cleaner than I did maybe in Cincinnati... I feel like I moved fairly well to some drop shots, which maybe last week I wasn't running to.

"So there's some good things in there but also some stuff I would like to do better."

Murray&nbsp;did not even reach the court until after 10 pm, thanks to a lengthy rain delay that pushed back his start time by more than three hours.

Sandgren gutted out a tough service hold in an opening game that went to deuce nine times, saving one break point as they went to the first-set decider without a break of serve.

The American needed four set points -- and saved one -- in taking the tiebreaker.

A deflated&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;was quickly down 3-0 with two breaks of serve in the second.

He clawed one back, and broke again when Sandgren coughed up two double faults while serving for the match at 5-4.

But Sandgren broke&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;again in the next game and then took full advantage of his second chance, capping the match with a forehand winner on his first match point.

"Physically, (I'm) OK considering -- no pain, no discomfort. Just a little bit more tired than usual,"&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;said.

Landmark for Lee

Having said in Cincinnati he would discontinue doubles to focus on returning to peak singles form,&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;said he might consider playing an ATP Challenger Tour event before heading to Asia, where he is entered in September's Zhuhai Championships and the China Open.

"Maybe I need to play a level down to get some matches and build my game up a little bit before I start playing on the tour again," he said.

In other action on a day when rain wreaked havoc on the schedule, South Korean Lee Duck-hee became the first deaf player to win an ATP Tour match, beating Switzerland's Henri Laaksonen 7-6 (7/4), 6-1.

"My message for people who are hearing impaired is to not be discouraged. If you try hard, you can do anything," said Lee, who will next face third-seeded Hubert Hurkacz of Poland.

Lee was two points from victory when thunderstorms swept through.

When he and Laaksonen returned some five hours later, Lee quickly polished off a win he admitted he hadn't been expecting.

"I thought that I was just going to do my best and try to stay focused," Lee said. "But I came out a winner."

Andy Murray on Monday fell in the first round of the ATP Winston-Salem Open, where the three-time Grand Slam champion was giving his surgically repaired hip just its second test in singles.

Andy Murray on Monday fell in the first round of the ATP Winston-Salem Open, where the three-time Grand Slam champion was giving his surgically repaired hip just its second test in singles. Britain's Murray, who feared in January that his hip trouble would end his career, accepted a wild card into this week's tournament in North Carolina after falling in his singles comeback in Cincinnati last week. He again showed glimpses of his once-dominant self, but was inconsistent in a 7-6 (10-8), 7-5 loss to 73rd-ranked American Tennys Sandgren in a match lasting 2 hours and 10 minutes. "Some things were a bit better today I think," Murray said. "I was hitting the ball a bit cleaner than I did maybe in Cincinnati... I feel like I moved fairly well to some drop shots, which maybe last week I wasn't running to. "So there's some good things in there but also some stuff I would like to do better." Murray did not even reach the court until after 10 pm, thanks to a lengthy rain delay that pushed back his start time by more than three hours. Sandgren gutted out a tough service hold in an opening game that went to deuce nine times, saving one break point as they went to the first-set decider without a break of serve. The American needed four set points -- and saved one -- in taking the tiebreaker. A deflated Murray was quickly down 3-0 with two breaks of serve in the second. He clawed one back, and broke again when Sandgren coughed up two double faults while serving for the match at 5-4. But Sandgren broke Murray again in the next game and then took full advantage of his second chance, capping the match with a forehand winner on his first match point. "Physically, (I'm) OK considering -- no pain, no discomfort. Just a little bit more tired than usual," Murray said. Landmark for Lee Having said in Cincinnati he would discontinue doubles to focus on returning to peak singles form, Murray said he might consider playing an ATP Challenger Tour event before heading to Asia, where he is entered in September's Zhuhai Championships and the China Open. "Maybe I need to play a level down to get some matches and build my game up a little bit before I start playing on the tour again," he said. In other action on a day when rain wreaked havoc on the schedule, South Korean Lee Duck-hee became the first deaf player to win an ATP Tour match, beating Switzerland's Henri Laaksonen 7-6 (7/4), 6-1. "My message for people who are hearing impaired is to not be discouraged. If you try hard, you can do anything," said Lee, who will next face third-seeded Hubert Hurkacz of Poland. Lee was two points from victory when thunderstorms swept through. When he and Laaksonen returned some five hours later, Lee quickly polished off a win he admitted he hadn't been expecting. "I thought that I was just going to do my best and try to stay focused," Lee said. "But I came out a winner."

Andy Murray falls to Sandgren as singles comeback continues

Andy Murray will play in the singles at next week's Winston-Salem Open as he continues his comeback from hip surgery, tournament officials told Reuters on Thursday.

The Scot lost 6-4, 6-4 to Richard Gasquet in Cincinnati on Monday in his first singles match since January and later said he would not accept a wild card for the men's draw at the US&nbsp;Open, the year's final Grand Slam.

"Andy will be playing singles, but he will not be playing doubles," Bill Oakes, tournament director for the North Carolina event, said by telephone.

"It's amazing to have a guy who has won three Grand Slams, been ranked number one and may be the fiercest competitor coming to Winston-Salem."

The tournament starts on Sunday, and Murray, who will not be seeded, could play his first match on Monday, Oakes said, adding that he had met with Murray's team two weeks ago in Washington and talks had continued this week.

Murray will be making his first appearance in the Winston-Salem tournament, though his brother Jamie has played there.

Andy Murray will play in the singles at next week's Winston-Salem Open as he continues his comeback from hip surgery, tournament officials told Reuters on Thursday.

Andy Murray will play in the singles at next week's Winston-Salem Open as he continues his comeback from hip surgery, tournament officials told Reuters on Thursday. The Scot lost 6-4, 6-4 to Richard Gasquet in Cincinnati on Monday in his first singles match since January and later said he would not accept a wild card for the men's draw at the US Open, the year's final Grand Slam. "Andy will be playing singles, but he will not be playing doubles," Bill Oakes, tournament director for the North Carolina event, said by telephone. "It's amazing to have a guy who has won three Grand Slams, been ranked number one and may be the fiercest competitor coming to Winston-Salem." The tournament starts on Sunday, and Murray, who will not be seeded, could play his first match on Monday, Oakes said, adding that he had met with Murray's team two weeks ago in Washington and talks had continued this week. Murray will be making his first appearance in the Winston-Salem tournament, though his brother Jamie has played there.

Andy Murray to play singles in Winston-Salem next week

Three-time Grand Slam champion&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-feeling-good-andy-murray-ready-as-hell-ever-be-for-singles-return-242427">Andy&nbsp;Murray</a>&nbsp;said he "did OK" in his first singles match in seven months -- a 6-4, 6-4 loss to Richard Gasquet at the Cincinnati Masters on Monday.

"I don't really know what I was expecting, to be honest," said&nbsp;Murray, sidelined since January by a career-threatening hip injury. "I did OK.

"There were a lot of things I would like to have done better in the match, but you also have to be somewhat realistic&nbsp;in terms of what you can expect, in terms of how you actually play and hit the ball."

Murray&nbsp;said he "felt fine, physically," during the match.

"My legs were a little bit heavy at the end of the match. When Richard drop-shotted me, there were a few times I didn't even run to the ball, didn't react to it.

"That's nothing to do with my hip, that’s just me not running for a ball."

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Murray&nbsp;hadn't played a singles match since a five-set first-round exit at the Australian Open, where he tearfully acknowledged he feared his career was over.

Since undergoing right hip resurfacing surgery on January 28 he has slowly fashioned a return.

Murray&nbsp;has been playing doubles for the past two months, winning at Queen's Club in London with Feliciano Lopez.

Gasquet, however, was too strong for the 32-year-old, who won the title in the US Open warm-up in Cincinnati in 2008 and 2011.

Gasquet, who had groin surgery in January, ended a five-match skid against the Briton, now ranked 324th.

Murray&nbsp;opened the game with a double fault, and his forehand into the net gave Gasquet a match point that the 56th-ranked Frenchman converted when&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;sent a service return wide to end the match after 96 minutes.

Tentative at times, he finished with a respectable 20 winners but struck 28 unforced errors.

No US Open singles

He was optimistic he can improve further.

"I think with a few more weeks of practice and hopefully some more matches, then I could do better," said&nbsp;Murray, who nevertheless said after the match that he did not intend to play singles at the US Open.

"I'm not going to play the US Open singles," he confirmed, adding that US Open organizers had wanted to know by Monday if he was interested in a wild card invitation.

"I felt like I wanted to maybe try and get a couple of matches in before making a decision like that," added&nbsp;Murray, who knows the best-of-five set format at Grand Slams will be even more of a challenge.

The return of former world number one&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;dominated an opening day that saw another former US Open champion, Marin Cilic, join&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;on the sidelines with a 6-4, 7-6 (8/6 loss to Radu Albot.

US wild card Sam Querrey booked a second-round date with top seed Novak Djokovic, defeating France's Pierre-Hugues Herbert 7-6 (7/2), 7-6 (7/1).

Seven-time champion Roger Federer will start his campaign in the second round against Argentine Juan Ignacio Londero, who defeated Italy's Matteo Berrettini 7-6 (7/3), 6-3.&nbsp;

Australian Nick Kyrgios slammed a ball skyward in a moment of distracted anger to earn a warning but buckled down to post a 7-5, 6-4 win over Italian Lorenzo Sonego.

In the women's draw at the ATP-WTA event, 2011 winner Maria Sharapova, who last played here five years ago, came back from a pair of first-round defeats at Wimbledon and Toronto, defeating Alison Riske 6-3, 7-6 (7/4).

Venus Williams defeated fellow American Lauren Davis 7-5, 6-2 to snap a four-match losing streak.

Sweden's Rebecca Peterson defeated Britain's Jo Konta, a 2017 quarter-finalist, 6-3, 3-6, 7-5.

Three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray said he "did OK" in his first singles match in seven months -- a 6-4, 6-4 loss to Richard Gasquet at the Cincinnati Masters on Monday.

Three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray said he "did OK" in his first singles match in seven months -- a 6-4, 6-4 loss to Richard Gasquet at the Cincinnati Masters on Monday. "I don't really know what I was expecting, to be honest," said Murray, sidelined since January by a career-threatening hip injury. "I did OK. "There were a lot of things I would like to have done better in the match, but you also have to be somewhat realistic in terms of what you can expect, in terms of how you actually play and hit the ball." Murray said he "felt fine, physically," during the match. "My legs were a little bit heavy at the end of the match. When Richard drop-shotted me, there were a few times I didn't even run to the ball, didn't react to it. "That's nothing to do with my hip, that’s just me not running for a ball." 🇬🇧 @andy_murray discusses the reasons behind his #USOpen decision. 👇 Read More ▶️ https://t.co/oHvN98CCB9 pic.twitter.com/cpS5MHnEjI — ATP Tour (@ATP_Tour) August 12, 2019 × Murray hadn't played a singles match since a five-set first-round exit at the Australian Open, where he tearfully acknowledged he feared his career was over. Since undergoing right hip resurfacing surgery on January 28 he has slowly fashioned a return. Murray has been playing doubles for the past two months, winning at Queen's Club in London with Feliciano Lopez. Gasquet, however, was too strong for the 32-year-old, who won the title in the US Open warm-up in Cincinnati in 2008 and 2011. Gasquet, who had groin surgery in January, ended a five-match skid against the Briton, now ranked 324th. Murray opened the game with a double fault, and his forehand into the net gave Gasquet a match point that the 56th-ranked Frenchman converted when Murray sent a service return wide to end the match after 96 minutes. Tentative at times, he finished with a respectable 20 winners but struck 28 unforced errors. No US Open singles He was optimistic he can improve further. "I think with a few more weeks of practice and hopefully some more matches, then I could do better," said Murray, who nevertheless said after the match that he did not intend to play singles at the US Open. "I'm not going to play the US Open singles," he confirmed, adding that US Open organizers had wanted to know by Monday if he was interested in a wild card invitation. "I felt like I wanted to maybe try and get a couple of matches in before making a decision like that," added Murray, who knows the best-of-five set format at Grand Slams will be even more of a challenge. The return of former world number one Murray dominated an opening day that saw another former US Open champion, Marin Cilic, join Murray on the sidelines with a 6-4, 7-6 (8/6 loss to Radu Albot. US wild card Sam Querrey booked a second-round date with top seed Novak Djokovic, defeating France's Pierre-Hugues Herbert 7-6 (7/2), 7-6 (7/1). Seven-time champion Roger Federer will start his campaign in the second round against Argentine Juan Ignacio Londero, who defeated Italy's Matteo Berrettini 7-6 (7/3), 6-3. Australian Nick Kyrgios slammed a ball skyward in a moment of distracted anger to earn a warning but buckled down to post a 7-5, 6-4 win over Italian Lorenzo Sonego. In the women's draw at the ATP-WTA event, 2011 winner Maria Sharapova, who last played here five years ago, came back from a pair of first-round defeats at Wimbledon and Toronto, defeating Alison Riske 6-3, 7-6 (7/4). Venus Williams defeated fellow American Lauren Davis 7-5, 6-2 to snap a four-match losing streak. Sweden's Rebecca Peterson defeated Britain's Jo Konta, a 2017 quarter-finalist, 6-3, 3-6, 7-5.

Andy Murray rates Cincinnati singles comeback 'OK' despite defeat

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-to-return-to-singles-in-cincinnati-next-week-242157">Andy&nbsp;Murray</a>&nbsp;on Sunday pronounced himself ready to go as he prepared to resume his singles career with a first-round test at the ATP Cincinnati Masters.&nbsp;

"I'm&nbsp;feeling good, I've had three of four good practice sessions," said&nbsp;Murray, a three-time Grand Slam champion who has tumbled to 325th in the world. "I have zero pain.&nbsp;

"I'm not expecting to move as well as I used to. There is still some improvement to be made, though it will take time.&nbsp;

"I started training&nbsp;singles a few weeks ago, it's the best to train with players at the highest level who hit the ball big."&nbsp;

The 32-year-old, who has undergone two major hip procedures, will face off against Frenchman Richard Gasquet in the opening round with the winner to face fourth seed Dominic Thiem.&nbsp;

Murray&nbsp;last played singles in the Australian Open first round, losing in pain over five sets to Roberto Bautista Agut eight months ago. 
In a tearful post-match analysis,&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;confessed that his career might be over.&nbsp;

That was far from the case, with a hip resurfacing a few weeks later giving him fresh hope.&nbsp;

Murray&nbsp;began playing doubles at Queen's Club in June, winning that grass court title with Feliciano Lopez.&nbsp;

Murray, Cincinnati singles champion in 2008 and 2011, credits doubles king Bob Bryan with inspiring him to make a return after hip surgery.&nbsp;

The American underwent the same resurfacing procedure as&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;in mid-2018 and made a solid return to competition.&nbsp;"I was speaking to him maybe three times a week from when he had his operation and even before,"&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;said of his communication with the recovering Bryan.&nbsp;

"I listened to how he felt and what he had done -- he was my inspiration, a huge help in my own comeback."&nbsp;

Murray&nbsp;said that as he increases his singles workload, everything seems to be falling into place.&nbsp;

"I've been recovering fine from practices, I've not had issues later in the day, I think I've handled myself pretty well."

But he admitted: "It's different playing matches. But at some stage you have to take the step to try and play.&nbsp;

"My team felt this was the time, that's why I'm giving it a go.&nbsp;

"The quickest way to get back up to speed is to practice with the top players, I think that means I can get back quicker."

Andy Murray on Sunday pronounced himself ready to go as he prepared to resume his singles career with a first-round test at the ATP Cincinnati Masters. "I'm feeling good, I've had three of four good practice sessions," said Murray, a three-time Grand Slam champion who has tumbled to 325th in the world.

Andy Murray on Sunday pronounced himself ready to go as he prepared to resume his singles career with a first-round test at the ATP Cincinnati Masters. "I'm feeling good, I've had three of four good practice sessions," said Murray, a three-time Grand Slam champion who has tumbled to 325th in the world. "I have zero pain. "I'm not expecting to move as well as I used to. There is still some improvement to be made, though it will take time. "I started training singles a few weeks ago, it's the best to train with players at the highest level who hit the ball big." The 32-year-old, who has undergone two major hip procedures, will face off against Frenchman Richard Gasquet in the opening round with the winner to face fourth seed Dominic Thiem. Murray last played singles in the Australian Open first round, losing in pain over five sets to Roberto Bautista Agut eight months ago. In a tearful post-match analysis, Murray confessed that his career might be over. That was far from the case, with a hip resurfacing a few weeks later giving him fresh hope. Murray began playing doubles at Queen's Club in June, winning that grass court title with Feliciano Lopez. Murray, Cincinnati singles champion in 2008 and 2011, credits doubles king Bob Bryan with inspiring him to make a return after hip surgery. The American underwent the same resurfacing procedure as Murray in mid-2018 and made a solid return to competition. "I was speaking to him maybe three times a week from when he had his operation and even before," Murray said of his communication with the recovering Bryan. "I listened to how he felt and what he had done -- he was my inspiration, a huge help in my own comeback." Murray said that as he increases his singles workload, everything seems to be falling into place. "I've been recovering fine from practices, I've not had issues later in the day, I think I've handled myself pretty well." But he admitted: "It's different playing matches. But at some stage you have to take the step to try and play. "My team felt this was the time, that's why I'm giving it a go. "The quickest way to get back up to speed is to practice with the top players, I think that means I can get back quicker."

'I'm feeling good': Andy Murray ready as he'll ever be for singles return

Three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray said on Friday he will return to singles competition next week at the ATP Cincinnati Masters, seven months after having right hip surgery he feared might end his career.

The British star posted a photo of himself on his Facebook page on court while yelling with a clenched right fist and the caption: "That feeling when you accept a wildcard for the singles in Cinci... #LetsDoThis #HereWeGo."

The 32-year-old Scotsman has fallen to 325th in the world rankings after his January operation to ease nagging hip pain.

His first match next week in Cincinnati in the final major tuneup for the US Open will be his first competitive singles outing since the Australian Open in January.

"Good news for the sport," Spain's Rafael Nadal said of Murray's return to singles. "Especially great news for him. That means that he's healthy.

"That's going to be a big, big moment for him," Nadal told reporters in Montreal. After all the retirement that he predicted in Australia ... six months later seems like he's back again, healthy, competing well."

Murray will face Richard Gasquet in the first round in Cincy. Murray leads their head-to-head 8-3 and beat the Frenchman in the 2015 Cincinnati quarter-finals.

Should Murray make it to the second round, he would face fourth-seeded Austrian Dominic Thiem.

Murray has played doubles in recent weeks while practicing his singles in a bid to regain his fitness in time to play at Cincinnati as preparation for this year's final Grand Slam event that starts in New York on August 26.

Murray and his brother Jamie played doubles together for the first time since the 2016 Rio Olympics in Washington last week, losing in the quarter-finals.

Murray, the 2012 and 2016 Olympic singles champion, won Grand Slam singles titles at the 2012 US Open and Wimbledon in 2013 and 2016.

Three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray said on Friday he will return to singles competition next week at the ATP Cincinnati Masters, seven months after having right hip surgery he feared might end his career.

Three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray said on Friday he will return to singles competition next week at the ATP Cincinnati Masters, seven months after having right hip surgery he feared might end his career. The British star posted a photo of himself on his Facebook page on court while yelling with a clenched right fist and the caption: "That feeling when you accept a wildcard for the singles in Cinci... #LetsDoThis #HereWeGo." The 32-year-old Scotsman has fallen to 325th in the world rankings after his January operation to ease nagging hip pain. His first match next week in Cincinnati in the final major tuneup for the US Open will be his first competitive singles outing since the Australian Open in January. "Good news for the sport," Spain's Rafael Nadal said of Murray's return to singles. "Especially great news for him. That means that he's healthy. "That's going to be a big, big moment for him," Nadal told reporters in Montreal. After all the retirement that he predicted in Australia ... six months later seems like he's back again, healthy, competing well." Murray will face Richard Gasquet in the first round in Cincy. Murray leads their head-to-head 8-3 and beat the Frenchman in the 2015 Cincinnati quarter-finals. Should Murray make it to the second round, he would face fourth-seeded Austrian Dominic Thiem. Murray has played doubles in recent weeks while practicing his singles in a bid to regain his fitness in time to play at Cincinnati as preparation for this year's final Grand Slam event that starts in New York on August 26. Murray and his brother Jamie played doubles together for the first time since the 2016 Rio Olympics in Washington last week, losing in the quarter-finals. Murray, the 2012 and 2016 Olympic singles champion, won Grand Slam singles titles at the 2012 US Open and Wimbledon in 2013 and 2016.

Andy Murray to return to singles in Cincinnati next week

Three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray moved closer to singles come back six months after hip surgery, joining brother Jamie for a doubles victory Wednesday at the ATP Washington Open.

The Murrays, partnered for the first time since the 2016 Rio Olympics, downed Frenchmen Nicolas Mahut and Edouard Roger-Vasselin 6-4, 6-7 (7/9), 10-5 to reach the last eight at the US Open tune-up event.

"The level of tennis I thought was really good," Andy Murray said. "It felt like there were some good points and quick reactions out there."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-closer-than-he-thought-to-singles-return-239473">Andy Murray</a> is practising singles and playing doubles as the former world number one, now ranked 222, continues his fightback from right hip surgery in January.

The 32 year old Scotsman feared he could be forced into retirement before the operation. He returned to the court in June but only in doubles while he rehabilitates.

"I have no pain," Murray said. "It's not restricting me in any of the shots that I'm hitting. I'm still maybe a little bit slow. I'm hoping that's something that comes back with time."

Murray departed Washington in tears from pain and frustration last year after a rain-delayed 3:00 am singles victory that led him to withdraw.

"I'm in a much better place than I was last year. Physically, I just feel so much better," Murray said.&nbsp;

"I didn't know how much more I was going to be playing after here last year. To come back and be competing and be pain-free is brilliant."

The British duo trailed 5-2 in the decisive super-tiebreaker but steamrolled back by taking the last eight points, with Jamie Murray's service winner securing the victory.

It was Andy who began the rally with a backhand winner and added backhand volley and drop volley winners on the two penultimate points.

Murray declared Monday his hip has responded better than expected and he was "quite close" to a singles comeback, perhaps as soon as Cincinnati in two weeks.

That would be only two weeks ahead of the US Open, with Murray also saying if he didn't play Cincinnati he would likely wait until after the US Open, cautious of pushing his luck untested in best of five set matches.

Murray, who won Grand Slam titles at the 2012 US Open and in 2013 and 2016 at Wimbledon, most recently played singles at the Australian Open in January, losing a first round five setter to Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut.

The Murrays, who helped Britain win the 2015 Davis Cup, broke the French duo in the final game to claim the first set, then outlasted them to the finish after one hour and 51 minutes.

They will play for a semi-final spot against third seeds Michael Venus of New Zealand and Raven Klaasen of South Africa.

Three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray moved closer to singles come back six months after hip surgery, joining brother Jamie for a doubles victory Wednesday at the ATP Washington Open.

Three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray moved closer to singles come back six months after hip surgery, joining brother Jamie for a doubles victory Wednesday at the ATP Washington Open. The Murrays, partnered for the first time since the 2016 Rio Olympics, downed Frenchmen Nicolas Mahut and Edouard Roger-Vasselin 6-4, 6-7 (7/9), 10-5 to reach the last eight at the US Open tune-up event. "The level of tennis I thought was really good," Andy Murray said. "It felt like there were some good points and quick reactions out there." Andy Murray is practising singles and playing doubles as the former world number one, now ranked 222, continues his fightback from right hip surgery in January. The 32 year old Scotsman feared he could be forced into retirement before the operation. He returned to the court in June but only in doubles while he rehabilitates. "I have no pain," Murray said. "It's not restricting me in any of the shots that I'm hitting. I'm still maybe a little bit slow. I'm hoping that's something that comes back with time." Murray departed Washington in tears from pain and frustration last year after a rain-delayed 3:00 am singles victory that led him to withdraw. "I'm in a much better place than I was last year. Physically, I just feel so much better," Murray said. "I didn't know how much more I was going to be playing after here last year. To come back and be competing and be pain-free is brilliant." The British duo trailed 5-2 in the decisive super-tiebreaker but steamrolled back by taking the last eight points, with Jamie Murray's service winner securing the victory. It was Andy who began the rally with a backhand winner and added backhand volley and drop volley winners on the two penultimate points. Murray declared Monday his hip has responded better than expected and he was "quite close" to a singles comeback, perhaps as soon as Cincinnati in two weeks. That would be only two weeks ahead of the US Open, with Murray also saying if he didn't play Cincinnati he would likely wait until after the US Open, cautious of pushing his luck untested in best of five set matches. Murray, who won Grand Slam titles at the 2012 US Open and in 2013 and 2016 at Wimbledon, most recently played singles at the Australian Open in January, losing a first round five setter to Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut. The Murrays, who helped Britain win the 2015 Davis Cup, broke the French duo in the final game to claim the first set, then outlasted them to the finish after one hour and 51 minutes. They will play for a semi-final spot against third seeds Michael Venus of New Zealand and Raven Klaasen of South Africa.

Andy Murray reunites with brother Jamie for doubles win

Former world number one Andy Murray is considering returning to singles action at Cincinnati next month, saying he is "closer than he thought" to be ready.

The 32-year-old has not played singles since losing in the first round of the Australian Open in January to Spain's Roberto Bautista Agut, after which he underwent hip resurfacing surgery in a bid to salvage his career.

He returned to doubles action at Queen's Club this year, winning the title with Spain's Feliciano Lopez, and also played men's doubles with Frenchman Pierre-Hugues Herbert and mixed with Serena Williams at Wimbledon.

Three-time Grand Slam champion Murray had previously said it was extremely unlikely he would be ready to play singles at the US Open but now believes a return on the Cincinnati hardcourts in two weeks' time is possible.

"I'm closer than I thought," Murray said at the Citi Open in Washington where he is playing doubles with brother Jamie.

"Best case scenario probably would be Cincinnati," he said.

"And then if I wasn't able to play in Cincinnati, there's a good chance I would probably wait until after New York, because I wouldn't want my first tournament, either, to be playing best-of-five sets."

Murray said he is practising singles in Washington and is also lined up to play doubles at the Rogers Cup next week in Toronto with Lopez.

"In terms of moving and feeling and waking up the next day, I'm feeling good," Murray said. "I'm quite close but there's stuff that would need to get better.

"I could (play singles), but to get where I would want to be I'd have to get back in the gym and get my cardio better."

Former world number one Andy Murray is considering returning to singles action at Cincinnati next month, saying he is "closer than he thought" to be ready. The 32-year-old has not played singles since losing in the first round of the Australian Open in January to Spain's Roberto Bautista Agut, after which he underwent hip resurfacing surgery in a bid to salvage his career.

Former world number one Andy Murray is considering returning to singles action at Cincinnati next month, saying he is "closer than he thought" to be ready. The 32-year-old has not played singles since losing in the first round of the Australian Open in January to Spain's Roberto Bautista Agut, after which he underwent hip resurfacing surgery in a bid to salvage his career. He returned to doubles action at Queen's Club this year, winning the title with Spain's Feliciano Lopez, and also played men's doubles with Frenchman Pierre-Hugues Herbert and mixed with Serena Williams at Wimbledon. Three-time Grand Slam champion Murray had previously said it was extremely unlikely he would be ready to play singles at the US Open but now believes a return on the Cincinnati hardcourts in two weeks' time is possible. "I'm closer than I thought," Murray said at the Citi Open in Washington where he is playing doubles with brother Jamie. "Best case scenario probably would be Cincinnati," he said. "And then if I wasn't able to play in Cincinnati, there's a good chance I would probably wait until after New York, because I wouldn't want my first tournament, either, to be playing best-of-five sets." Murray said he is practising singles in Washington and is also lined up to play doubles at the Rogers Cup next week in Toronto with Lopez. "In terms of moving and feeling and waking up the next day, I'm feeling good," Murray said. "I'm quite close but there's stuff that would need to get better. "I could (play singles), but to get where I would want to be I'd have to get back in the gym and get my cardio better."

Andy Murray closer than he thought to singles return

Johanna Konta's often tetchy relationship with Britain's tennis media corps turned sour again as she accused them of "picking on me" after her quarter-final loss to Czech Barbora Strycova at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-survives-riske-business-to-reach-wimbledon-semis-234457">Wimbledon </a>on Tuesday.

The Sydney-born, 28-year-old raised home hopes when she powered into a 4-1 lead against the unseeded Strycova but things turned ugly as she slumped to a 7-6(5), 6-1 Centre Court defeat.

While the 33-year-old Strycova played impressively to outsmart the 19th seed, Konta was the architect of her own downfall as she blazed 34 unforced errors against an opponent who simply had too much guile.

The outcome ended Britain's hopes of a first women's singles champion here since Virginia Wade in 1977.

Considering Konta is a three-time <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-simona-halep-enters-semis-after-defeating-zhang-shuai-234451">Grand Slam</a> semi-finalist with a career-high ranking of four and was a clear favourite to win Tuesday's match, it did not seem unreasonable for her to be asked whether she could have performed better.

Perhaps the pressure of being Britain's big hope in the absence of Andy Murray from the singles had got to her, but Konta was in no mood for negativity.

"Is that in your professional tennis opinion?" she snapped during a post-match news conference. "Okay. I mean, I don't think you need to pick on me in a harsh way. I think I'm very open with you guys. I say how I feel out there. If you don't want to accept that answer or you don't agree with it, that's fine.''

"I still believe in the tennis I play. I believe in the way I competed. I don't have much else to say to your question."

Pushed further, she said,&nbsp;"Please don't patronise me...''

"No, no, you are. In the way you're asking your question, you're being quite disrespectful and you're patronising me.''

"I'm a professional competitor who did her best today, and that's all there is to that," Konta said.

Konta had reached her second Wimbledon quarter-final with impressive victories over former US&nbsp;Open champion Sloane Stephens and two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova.

Despite losing her only previous match with Strycova it still seemed an inviting route to a semi-final date with Serena Williams but for the second Grand Slam in a row, an unseeded Czech proved her undoing.

With a first Grand Slam final beckoning in the French Open <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-ashleigh-barty-karolina-pliskova-exit-as-serena-williams-sails-through-to-quarter-finals-234225">semi-finals</a> last month, Konta lost 7-5, 7-6 to teenager Marketa Vondrousova, blowing 5-3 leads in both sets.

Konta remains convinced, however, that she will end Britain's long wait for a successor to Wade.

"I think the best I can do is put myself in the positions, to give myself the opportunity to keep going further and further. I mean, it will either happen or it won't," she said.

"I'm no less of a person or a player if I don't get past this point. Equally so if I do.''

"I play this game with dignity, and I love the sport. I'm grateful for everything that it brings me," said Konta.

Konta has fallen out with the British media before.

After her fourth successive French Open first-round defeat last year, she appeared to blame the loss on reporters.

"If every time you went in to work, let's say you went into work because..., and let's say for a few years your pieces of writing have just been crap every time when you come into Roland Garros. Right? Just crap. Then your colleagues start to say, 'You know, you really suck around that time.' And that happens, you know, for a few years. How would you guys digest that?," added Konta.

Johanna Konta's often tetchy relationship with Britain's tennis media corps turned sour again as she accused them of "picking on me" after her quarter-final loss to Czech Barbora Strycova at Wimbledon on Tuesday.

Johanna Konta's often tetchy relationship with Britain's tennis media corps turned sour again as she accused them of "picking on me" after her quarter-final loss to Czech Barbora Strycova at Wimbledon on Tuesday. The Sydney-born, 28-year-old raised home hopes when she powered into a 4-1 lead against the unseeded Strycova but things turned ugly as she slumped to a 7-6(5), 6-1 Centre Court defeat. While the 33-year-old Strycova played impressively to outsmart the 19th seed, Konta was the architect of her own downfall as she blazed 34 unforced errors against an opponent who simply had too much guile. The outcome ended Britain's hopes of a first women's singles champion here since Virginia Wade in 1977. Considering Konta is a three-time Grand Slam semi-finalist with a career-high ranking of four and was a clear favourite to win Tuesday's match, it did not seem unreasonable for her to be asked whether she could have performed better. Perhaps the pressure of being Britain's big hope in the absence of Andy Murray from the singles had got to her, but Konta was in no mood for negativity. "Is that in your professional tennis opinion?" she snapped during a post-match news conference. "Okay. I mean, I don't think you need to pick on me in a harsh way. I think I'm very open with you guys. I say how I feel out there. If you don't want to accept that answer or you don't agree with it, that's fine.'' "I still believe in the tennis I play. I believe in the way I competed. I don't have much else to say to your question." Pushed further, she said, "Please don't patronise me...'' "No, no, you are. In the way you're asking your question, you're being quite disrespectful and you're patronising me.'' "I'm a professional competitor who did her best today, and that's all there is to that," Konta said. Konta had reached her second Wimbledon quarter-final with impressive victories over former US Open champion Sloane Stephens and two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova. Despite losing her only previous match with Strycova it still seemed an inviting route to a semi-final date with Serena Williams but for the second Grand Slam in a row, an unseeded Czech proved her undoing. With a first Grand Slam final beckoning in the French Open semi-finals last month, Konta lost 7-5, 7-6 to teenager Marketa Vondrousova, blowing 5-3 leads in both sets. Konta remains convinced, however, that she will end Britain's long wait for a successor to Wade. "I think the best I can do is put myself in the positions, to give myself the opportunity to keep going further and further. I mean, it will either happen or it won't," she said. "I'm no less of a person or a player if I don't get past this point. Equally so if I do.'' "I play this game with dignity, and I love the sport. I'm grateful for everything that it brings me," said Konta. Konta has fallen out with the British media before. After her fourth successive French Open first-round defeat last year, she appeared to blame the loss on reporters. "If every time you went in to work, let's say you went into work because..., and let's say for a few years your pieces of writing have just been crap every time when you come into Roland Garros. Right? Just crap. Then your colleagues start to say, 'You know, you really suck around that time.' And that happens, you know, for a few years. How would you guys digest that?," added Konta.

Wimbledon: Johanna Konta bursts out on media, calls them disrespectful, patronising

Andy Murray and Serena Williams' mixed doubles dream team came unstuck at Wimbledon on Wednesday when the star pairing were knocked out by the top seeds.

The pair lost 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 to Bruno Soares of Brazil and Nicole Melichar of the United States, who progress to the quarter-finals.

The third-round match was played out on the 4,000-seater Court Two sunken bowl -- a rare appearance outside the Centre Court and Court One big show courts for the likes of multiple former champions Murray and Williams.

British home favourite Murray, a former world number one, is easing his way back into tennis via the doubles after undergoing radical hip resurfacing surgery.

Andy Murray and Serena Williams' mixed doubles dream team came unstuck at Wimbledon on Wednesday when the star pairing were knocked out by the top seeds. The pair lost 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 to Bruno Soares of Brazil and Nicole Melichar of the United States, who progress to the quarter-finals.

Andy Murray and Serena Williams' mixed doubles dream team came unstuck at Wimbledon on Wednesday when the star pairing were knocked out by the top seeds. The pair lost 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 to Bruno Soares of Brazil and Nicole Melichar of the United States, who progress to the quarter-finals. The third-round match was played out on the 4,000-seater Court Two sunken bowl -- a rare appearance outside the Centre Court and Court One big show courts for the likes of multiple former champions Murray and Williams. British home favourite Murray, a former world number one, is easing his way back into tennis via the doubles after undergoing radical hip resurfacing surgery.

Andy Murray and Serena Williams' Wimbledon dream over

Andy Murray wanted it, the British fans were desperate for it and the media were working themselves into a frenzy about it and on Tuesday it was confirmed that Serena Williams had said yes.

Speculation has bubbled about a Murray/Williams dream team for the Wimbledon mixed doubles since 23-time Grand Slam singles champion Williams hinted at the weekend about her availability.

After the American struggled past Italian Giulia Gatto-Monticone in the first round of the singles on Tuesday she left the British media in suspense.

"If you guys really want it... all right, done," she teased after initially saying she was still trying to figure out the "singles part" and would "have to see".

But shortly afterwards, Murray's management team confirmed that they would be playing together.

It is a coup for Murray, and the tournament, with crowds set to flock to the All England Club in even greater numbers to try and catch a glimpse of the scratch pairing in action.

Twice men's singles champion Murray, back playing doubles as he continues his recovery from career-saving hip surgery in February, had already been turned down for the mixed doubles by new <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashleigh-barty-rejects-but-andy-murray-flooded-with-wimbledon-mixed-doubles-offers-229452&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjDi67mhpjjAhUil48KHSv9CE4QFjAFegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0jwxvkndsEceZgx2_2zARt">world number one Ash Barty</a>.

But Williams is not a bad consolation.

Asked at the weekend whether he wanted to play with the American great, the Scot said, with a trademark sense of understatement, the 37-year-old mum would be a "solid" partner.

TEMPTING CHALLENGE

Williams has won 16 Grand Slam doubles titles but has not played mixed doubles at a major since partnering fellow American Bob Bryan at the 2012 French Open.

She did win the 1998 mixed title at Wimbledon with Max Mirnyi, however, and the prospect of repeating that feat with a player she says she admires greatly proved too tempting.

"His work ethic is just honestly off the charts. That's something I've always respected about him," Serena told reporters when asked about the player who in 2013 became the first British man for 77 years to win Wimbledon.

"His fitness, everything. To do what he's done in an era where there's so many other great male tennis players, so much competition, to rise above it, not many people have done it. He's actually one of the few," Serena said.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-marks-pain-free-return-with-doubles-win-at-queens-club-229128&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjDi67mhpjjAhUil48KHSv9CE4QFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0NAI_Np_5eUFaZp0SxkaID">Murray</a>, married with two children, also broke the trend and became one of the few top male players to hire a female coach when he took on Amelie Mauresmo for two years from 2014-16.

"He really stands out, he really speaks up about women's issues no matter what," said Williams. "You can tell he has a really strong woman in his life."

The only issue will be whether the American's' knees will cope with the extra demands as she bids for an eighth singles crown here and whether Murray's hip holds up to what will now be a packed doubles programme if they progress.

He is also playing with Frenchman Pierre-Hugues Herbert in the men's doubles having returned to action last month at Queen's Club to win the doubles title with Feliciano Lopez.

Murray's brother Jamie won the mixed doubles at Wimbledon twice, in 2007 with former world number ones Jelena Jankovic and with Martina Hingis 10 years later. He picked his partners well. So it seems has his brother.

Andy Murray wanted it, the British fans were desperate for it and the media were working themselves into a frenzy about it and on Tuesday it was confirmed that Serena Williams had said yes.

Andy Murray wanted it, the British fans were desperate for it and the media were working themselves into a frenzy about it and on Tuesday it was confirmed that Serena Williams had said yes. Speculation has bubbled about a Murray/Williams dream team for the Wimbledon mixed doubles since 23-time Grand Slam singles champion Williams hinted at the weekend about her availability. After the American struggled past Italian Giulia Gatto-Monticone in the first round of the singles on Tuesday she left the British media in suspense. "If you guys really want it... all right, done," she teased after initially saying she was still trying to figure out the "singles part" and would "have to see". But shortly afterwards, Murray's management team confirmed that they would be playing together. It is a coup for Murray, and the tournament, with crowds set to flock to the All England Club in even greater numbers to try and catch a glimpse of the scratch pairing in action. Twice men's singles champion Murray, back playing doubles as he continues his recovery from career-saving hip surgery in February, had already been turned down for the mixed doubles by new world number one Ash Barty. But Williams is not a bad consolation. Asked at the weekend whether he wanted to play with the American great, the Scot said, with a trademark sense of understatement, the 37-year-old mum would be a "solid" partner. TEMPTING CHALLENGE Williams has won 16 Grand Slam doubles titles but has not played mixed doubles at a major since partnering fellow American Bob Bryan at the 2012 French Open. She did win the 1998 mixed title at Wimbledon with Max Mirnyi, however, and the prospect of repeating that feat with a player she says she admires greatly proved too tempting. "His work ethic is just honestly off the charts. That's something I've always respected about him," Serena told reporters when asked about the player who in 2013 became the first British man for 77 years to win Wimbledon. "His fitness, everything. To do what he's done in an era where there's so many other great male tennis players, so much competition, to rise above it, not many people have done it. He's actually one of the few," Serena said. Murray, married with two children, also broke the trend and became one of the few top male players to hire a female coach when he took on Amelie Mauresmo for two years from 2014-16. "He really stands out, he really speaks up about women's issues no matter what," said Williams. "You can tell he has a really strong woman in his life." The only issue will be whether the American's' knees will cope with the extra demands as she bids for an eighth singles crown here and whether Murray's hip holds up to what will now be a packed doubles programme if they progress. He is also playing with Frenchman Pierre-Hugues Herbert in the men's doubles having returned to action last month at Queen's Club to win the doubles title with Feliciano Lopez. Murray's brother Jamie won the mixed doubles at Wimbledon twice, in 2007 with former world number ones Jelena Jankovic and with Martina Hingis 10 years later. He picked his partners well. So it seems has his brother.

Andy Murray, Serena Williams form Wimbledon mixed doubles dream team

Twice Wimbledon champion Andy Murray said his doubles title at Queen's Club on Sunday with Feliciano Lopez was "more special" than many of his singles triumphs.

The 32-year-old capped a dream week at his first tournament since having hip surgery in February by beating 7-6(6), 5-7, 10-5 over Briton Joe Salisbury and American Rajeev Ram.

Murray has won 45 titles, including three Grand Slams, finished 2016 as world number one and is the only man to retain the Olympic singles gold.

But Sunday's title was his first with what he described as a "metal hip", his first anywhere since winning in Dubai in 2017 and one that proved he may well have something more to offer having believed his career was all but over in January.

He left open the possibility that he could return as a singles player in time for the US&nbsp;Open.

"I mean, look, this is very different for me, and it's more special than a lot of the singles tournaments that I have won for a lot of different reasons," Murray, who celebrated winning match point in ecstatic fashion, told reporters.

"Like, I just won the doubles here with Feli, you know, with a metal hip. It's mental, really. That's a cool thing to be able to have done, just because of probably where I was a few months ago. And at times, even as far as just two months ago.

"I just wasn't thinking about this. I was just really, really happy just to be pain-free and enjoying life, literally just doing normal things. So it's really special."

Murray, who had hip resurfacing surgery after years of playing in pain, will play doubles in Eastbourne next week with Marcelo Melo and then partner Pierre-Hugues Herbert at Wimbledon where he also hopes to play mixed.

He is relaxed about whether the US&nbsp;Open singles was realistic and even said he would be happy to consider playing doubles only to continue his career.

US Open

Asked about whether he could target the singles at the US&nbsp;Open, Murray said: "Potentially, yeah. But I don't care either way. It would be nice to play at the U.S. Open, but if I don't -- look, I got so much enjoyment and happiness after winning a first-round doubles match here that, you know, that's enough.

"I don't have to be getting to the US&nbsp;Open this year and be really competitive and have to win it to enjoy it. I'm going to go at my own pace, hopefully keep progressing.

"I'm sure at some stage it will come, a bit of a plateau because it's been very quick and constant improvements. But I still have to improve quite a few things, like, physically."

Murray clearly revelled in being back on court and produced some stunning returns alongside Lopez who co-starred after earlier winning the singles title Murray has won five times.

His movement looked free and he ran down several drop shots.

Lopez, 37, was clearly impressed.

"I don't know how much he can still progress," he said. "I hope that he's going to be playing singles soon. But this is up to him and his team that they have to make a decision on when it's going to be the right time.

"But I'm sure that if he keeps progressing the way he's doing right now, we're gonna see him playing singles again."

Twice Wimbledon champion Andy Murray said his doubles title at Queen's Club on Sunday with Feliciano Lopez was "more special" than many of his singles triumphs. The 32-year-old capped a dream week at his first tournament since having hip surgery in February by beating 7-6(6), 5-7, 10-5 over Briton Joe Salisbury and American Rajeev Ram.

Twice Wimbledon champion Andy Murray said his doubles title at Queen's Club on Sunday with Feliciano Lopez was "more special" than many of his singles triumphs. The 32-year-old capped a dream week at his first tournament since having hip surgery in February by beating 7-6(6), 5-7, 10-5 over Briton Joe Salisbury and American Rajeev Ram. Murray has won 45 titles, including three Grand Slams, finished 2016 as world number one and is the only man to retain the Olympic singles gold. But Sunday's title was his first with what he described as a "metal hip", his first anywhere since winning in Dubai in 2017 and one that proved he may well have something more to offer having believed his career was all but over in January. He left open the possibility that he could return as a singles player in time for the US Open. "I mean, look, this is very different for me, and it's more special than a lot of the singles tournaments that I have won for a lot of different reasons," Murray, who celebrated winning match point in ecstatic fashion, told reporters. "Like, I just won the doubles here with Feli, you know, with a metal hip. It's mental, really. That's a cool thing to be able to have done, just because of probably where I was a few months ago. And at times, even as far as just two months ago. "I just wasn't thinking about this. I was just really, really happy just to be pain-free and enjoying life, literally just doing normal things. So it's really special." Murray, who had hip resurfacing surgery after years of playing in pain, will play doubles in Eastbourne next week with Marcelo Melo and then partner Pierre-Hugues Herbert at Wimbledon where he also hopes to play mixed. He is relaxed about whether the US Open singles was realistic and even said he would be happy to consider playing doubles only to continue his career. US Open Asked about whether he could target the singles at the US Open, Murray said: "Potentially, yeah. But I don't care either way. It would be nice to play at the U.S. Open, but if I don't -- look, I got so much enjoyment and happiness after winning a first-round doubles match here that, you know, that's enough. "I don't have to be getting to the US Open this year and be really competitive and have to win it to enjoy it. I'm going to go at my own pace, hopefully keep progressing. "I'm sure at some stage it will come, a bit of a plateau because it's been very quick and constant improvements. But I still have to improve quite a few things, like, physically." Murray clearly revelled in being back on court and produced some stunning returns alongside Lopez who co-starred after earlier winning the singles title Murray has won five times. His movement looked free and he ran down several drop shots. Lopez, 37, was clearly impressed. "I don't know how much he can still progress," he said. "I hope that he's going to be playing singles soon. But this is up to him and his team that they have to make a decision on when it's going to be the right time. "But I'm sure that if he keeps progressing the way he's doing right now, we're gonna see him playing singles again."

Andy Murray hails 'special' doubles title at Queen's Club

Andy Murray&nbsp;returned after a five-month injury layoff in the doubles event at the Queen's Club Championship this week and to continue the momentum, he offered Australia's Ashleigh Barty to pair with him at this year's Wimbledon.&nbsp;

However, Barty rejected the opportunity as she is already playing singles and women's doubles.

Responding to Andy's story, French Open champion Ashleigh Barty admitted that her decision to turn down Murray's offer was "the hardest decision" she has ever had to make.

"I took some time to think about it, and playing three events is just a little bit too much. I was very flattered but said to him, 'I think there are some pretty good options out there for you'. I'm sure he'll find someone," Barty said.

Andy Murray may have been rejected by Barty but he was flooded with offers from players past and present who want to partner up with him.&nbsp;

"*Checks calendar* Available, and lacing up, @andy_murray," multiple Grand Slam champion Billie Jean King, 75, wrote on Twitter.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none" data-lang="en">
*Checks calendar* 
Available, and lacing up, <a href="https://twitter.com/andy_murray?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@andy_murray</a>.🙋🏻‍♀️
— Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) <a href="https://twitter.com/BillieJeanKing/status/1141872812841472001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Britain's Naomi Broady said, "I would totally ditch my own flesh and blood AKA Liam Broady to play with you #SORRYBRO."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/andy_murray?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@andy_murray</a> I would totally ditch my own flesh and blood AKA <a href="https://twitter.com/Liambroady?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Liambroady</a> to play with you <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SORRYBRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SORRYBRO</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LOVEYOU?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LOVEYOU</a> 😬
— Naomi Broady (@NaomiBroady) <a href="https://twitter.com/NaomiBroady/status/1141836462314479616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Barty's former doubles partner CoCo Vandeweghe out due to injuries also offered to play with Murray.

"I'll come out of injury reserve for this. Sorry Ash Barty," Vandeweghe tweeted.

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I’ll come out of injury reserve for this. Sorry <a href="https://twitter.com/ashbar96?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashbar96</a> 💁🏼‍♀️
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Barbora Strycova, ranked fourth in women's doubles, said she would not make the "same mistake" as her fellow peers.

"Hey, @andymurray I heard rumors that you got rejected by my fellow players a couple of times when finding a partner for mixed doubles in Wimbledon," she wrote on Instagram. "I swear I wouldn't do the same mistake like them."

Andy Murray returned after a five-month injury layoff in the doubles event at the Queen's Club Championship this week and to continue the momentum, he offered Australia's Ashleigh Barty to pair with him at this year's Wimbledon.

Andy Murray returned after a five-month injury layoff in the doubles event at the Queen's Club Championship this week and to continue the momentum, he offered Australia's Ashleigh Barty to pair with him at this year's Wimbledon. However, Barty rejected the opportunity as she is already playing singles and women's doubles. Responding to Andy's story, French Open champion Ashleigh Barty admitted that her decision to turn down Murray's offer was "the hardest decision" she has ever had to make. "I took some time to think about it, and playing three events is just a little bit too much. I was very flattered but said to him, 'I think there are some pretty good options out there for you'. I'm sure he'll find someone," Barty said. Andy Murray may have been rejected by Barty but he was flooded with offers from players past and present who want to partner up with him. "*Checks calendar* Available, and lacing up, @andy_murray," multiple Grand Slam champion Billie Jean King, 75, wrote on Twitter. *Checks calendar* Available, and lacing up, @andy_murray.🙋🏻‍♀️ — Billie Jean King (@BillieJeanKing) June 21, 2019 × Britain's Naomi Broady said, "I would totally ditch my own flesh and blood AKA Liam Broady to play with you #SORRYBRO." @andy_murray I would totally ditch my own flesh and blood AKA @Liambroady to play with you #SORRYBRO #LOVEYOU 😬 — Naomi Broady (@NaomiBroady) June 20, 2019 × Barty's former doubles partner CoCo Vandeweghe out due to injuries also offered to play with Murray. "I'll come out of injury reserve for this. Sorry Ash Barty," Vandeweghe tweeted. I’ll come out of injury reserve for this. Sorry @ashbar96 💁🏼‍♀️ — CoCo Vandeweghe (@CoCoVandey) June 21, 2019 × Barbora Strycova, ranked fourth in women's doubles, said she would not make the "same mistake" as her fellow peers. "Hey, @andymurray I heard rumors that you got rejected by my fellow players a couple of times when finding a partner for mixed doubles in Wimbledon," she wrote on Instagram. "I swear I wouldn't do the same mistake like them."

Ashleigh Barty rejects but Andy Murray flooded with Wimbledon mixed-doubles offers

Britain's Andy Murray made a successful return to action after six months out following hip surgery as he partnered Feliciano Lopez to a first-round doubles win at the Queen's Club championships on Thursday.

The 32-year-old, five-times a winner of the singles at the prestigious Wimbledon warm-up event, delighted a large evening centre court crowd with some fluent shot-making as he and Spanish veteran Lopez beat top seeds Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah 7-6(5), 6-3.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-set-to-play-doubles-at-queens-club-224103&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwji7snY8_niAhUDFYgKHcqCDGcQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw37g8jeeQWsBudzuPQqD-z1">Murray</a>, who missed most of 2018 with a hip injury, last played at the Australian Open in January when it appeared his career might be over following an emotional second-round defeat by Roberto Bautista Agut.

The two-times Wimbledon champion, by far Britain's most successful player in modern times, underwent hip-resurfacing surgery shortly after that but has been coy about his chances of making a return to the singles court.

While not too much can be read into Thursday's doubles win, Murray certainly appeared to be moving without the trademark limp that was present when he played his last singles match at Wimbledon two years ago -&nbsp;a loss to Sam Querrey.

He had the crowd roaring their approval, producing two crunching forehand winners to secure a vital break of serve in the second set and a superb backhand overhead volley in the last game as he and Lopez closed in on victory over the Colombians who will rue such a demanding draw.

"It was brilliant. I enjoyed it a lot. I was a little bit slow at the beginning but got better as the match went on," former world number one Murray said.

"I'm very fortunate to be back playing tennis again. I love playing on this court, it's a brilliant place to play tennis. I felt quite relaxed in the build-up today but I started to feel a bit nervous walking to the court. You want the nerves and the butterflies in the stomach and I had that today," Murray said.&nbsp;

Murray later said he had been "<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/pain-free-andy-murray-optimistic-about-return-to-tennis-220472&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwji7snY8_niAhUDFYgKHcqCDGcQFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0Ji_BqDd0bywQ0SzA_1Ji7">pain-free</a>" and confirmed he would play with Frenchman Pierre-Hugues Herbert in the Wimbledon men's doubles and would also play mixed.

"I have spoken to a couple of players. I've been rejected a couple of times so far," Murray joked.

Britain's Andy Murray made a successful return to action after six months out following hip surgery as he partnered Feliciano Lopez to a first-round doubles win at the Queen's Club championships on Thursday.

Britain's Andy Murray made a successful return to action after six months out following hip surgery as he partnered Feliciano Lopez to a first-round doubles win at the Queen's Club championships on Thursday. The 32-year-old, five-times a winner of the singles at the prestigious Wimbledon warm-up event, delighted a large evening centre court crowd with some fluent shot-making as he and Spanish veteran Lopez beat top seeds Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah 7-6(5), 6-3. Murray, who missed most of 2018 with a hip injury, last played at the Australian Open in January when it appeared his career might be over following an emotional second-round defeat by Roberto Bautista Agut. The two-times Wimbledon champion, by far Britain's most successful player in modern times, underwent hip-resurfacing surgery shortly after that but has been coy about his chances of making a return to the singles court. While not too much can be read into Thursday's doubles win, Murray certainly appeared to be moving without the trademark limp that was present when he played his last singles match at Wimbledon two years ago - a loss to Sam Querrey. He had the crowd roaring their approval, producing two crunching forehand winners to secure a vital break of serve in the second set and a superb backhand overhead volley in the last game as he and Lopez closed in on victory over the Colombians who will rue such a demanding draw. "It was brilliant. I enjoyed it a lot. I was a little bit slow at the beginning but got better as the match went on," former world number one Murray said. "I'm very fortunate to be back playing tennis again. I love playing on this court, it's a brilliant place to play tennis. I felt quite relaxed in the build-up today but I started to feel a bit nervous walking to the court. You want the nerves and the butterflies in the stomach and I had that today," Murray said. Murray later said he had been "pain-free" and confirmed he would play with Frenchman Pierre-Hugues Herbert in the Wimbledon men's doubles and would also play mixed. "I have spoken to a couple of players. I've been rejected a couple of times so far," Murray joked.

Andy Murray marks 'pain free' return with doubles win at Queen's Club

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Andy+Murray">Andy Murray</a> will make his competitive return from hip surgery later this month at the Queen's Club grasscourt tournament where he will play in the doubles event.

"I am really excited to return to the match court for the first time since my surgery," Murray was quoted on the Lawn Tennis Association website.

"Queen's has always been a special place for me and it's the perfect place to return. It's where I won my first ATP match, my first title in Britain and on grass, and it's been my most successful tournament overall."

Three-time Grand Slam champion Murray, 32, will likely partner Spain's Feliciano Lopez.

He has not played since the Australian Open in January, after which he had a hip-resurfacing operation.

Murray's return to the court will raise hopes that he could appear at Wimbledon, although he played down his chances of appearing in the singles there.

"I'm not yet ready to return to the singles court, but I've been pain-free for a few months now," he said.

"I've made good progress in training and on the practice court, and this is the next step for me as I try to return to the tour."

The Queen's event, where Murray has won the singles title five times, begins on June 17.

Andy Murray will make his competitive return from hip surgery later this month at the Queen's Club grasscourt tournament where he will play in the doubles event.

Andy Murray will make his competitive return from hip surgery later this month at the Queen's Club grasscourt tournament where he will play in the doubles event. "I am really excited to return to the match court for the first time since my surgery," Murray was quoted on the Lawn Tennis Association website. "Queen's has always been a special place for me and it's the perfect place to return. It's where I won my first ATP match, my first title in Britain and on grass, and it's been my most successful tournament overall." Three-time Grand Slam champion Murray, 32, will likely partner Spain's Feliciano Lopez. He has not played since the Australian Open in January, after which he had a hip-resurfacing operation. Murray's return to the court will raise hopes that he could appear at Wimbledon, although he played down his chances of appearing in the singles there. "I'm not yet ready to return to the singles court, but I've been pain-free for a few months now," he said. "I've made good progress in training and on the practice court, and this is the next step for me as I try to return to the tour." The Queen's event, where Murray has won the singles title five times, begins on June 17.

Andy Murray set to play doubles at Queen's Club

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Andy+Murray">Andy Murray</a> is confident he can return to competitive tennis and has hinted at a doubles spot at Wimbledon, inspired by American doubles great Bob Bryan's return from hip surgery.

The two-time Wimbledon champion, 32, in January, announced plans to retire after this year's Wimbledon due to injury, expressing doubt as to whether he would even make it to the All England Club.

The Scot has all but ruled out an appearance in the singles draw, nearly four months after surgery on a career-threatening hip problem, but he could return by playing in the men's doubles.

The former world number one told Tuesday Times there was "very little chance" he would play singles during the grass-court season.

"Potentially doubles, but I'm not trying to get ready for singles just now," he said.

"The thing I said before was that, if I wasn't feeling good, there was more chance that I would play and then stop after Wimbledon.

"Whereas if it's feeling good, it makes a bit more sense to give it time to make sure that it's as good as possible before I try to play singles on it."

Murray, whose ranking has plummeted to 218 due to his time away from the court, said he was pain-free as he spoke about the example set by Bryan.

"I know from seeing what Bob Bryan has done (he had similar surgery last year) that for doubles it will be absolutely fine. I will need to see from there how it would work singles-wise.

"It has been really good so far. I'm playing lots of golf. I don't have any pain walking round the course and swinging clubs. When I'm on the court hitting, it has been perfect.&nbsp;

"If I continue to feel good, then I will obviously give it a shot in singles and see what happens. Whereas in doubles I am pretty certain I will be able to play, just based on having an example to look at.

"I can look at Bob Bryan and say, this is what he has done, he is playing top three or four in the world-level doubles. He's also nine years older than me, so why would I not be able to do the same and hopefully a bit more?"

Murray has an official deadline of June 18 to apply for a wildcard for this year's Wimbledon, where he was the champion in 2013 and 2016, and could also use his protected ranking to enter.

Andy Murray is confident he can return to competitive tennis and has hinted at a doubles spot at Wimbledon, inspired by American doubles great Bob Bryan's return from hip surgery.

Andy Murray is confident he can return to competitive tennis and has hinted at a doubles spot at Wimbledon, inspired by American doubles great Bob Bryan's return from hip surgery. The two-time Wimbledon champion, 32, in January, announced plans to retire after this year's Wimbledon due to injury, expressing doubt as to whether he would even make it to the All England Club. The Scot has all but ruled out an appearance in the singles draw, nearly four months after surgery on a career-threatening hip problem, but he could return by playing in the men's doubles. The former world number one told Tuesday Times there was "very little chance" he would play singles during the grass-court season. "Potentially doubles, but I'm not trying to get ready for singles just now," he said. "The thing I said before was that, if I wasn't feeling good, there was more chance that I would play and then stop after Wimbledon. "Whereas if it's feeling good, it makes a bit more sense to give it time to make sure that it's as good as possible before I try to play singles on it." Murray, whose ranking has plummeted to 218 due to his time away from the court, said he was pain-free as he spoke about the example set by Bryan. "I know from seeing what Bob Bryan has done (he had similar surgery last year) that for doubles it will be absolutely fine. I will need to see from there how it would work singles-wise. "It has been really good so far. I'm playing lots of golf. I don't have any pain walking round the course and swinging clubs. When I'm on the court hitting, it has been perfect. "If I continue to feel good, then I will obviously give it a shot in singles and see what happens. Whereas in doubles I am pretty certain I will be able to play, just based on having an example to look at. "I can look at Bob Bryan and say, this is what he has done, he is playing top three or four in the world-level doubles. He's also nine years older than me, so why would I not be able to do the same and hopefully a bit more?" Murray has an official deadline of June 18 to apply for a wildcard for this year's Wimbledon, where he was the champion in 2013 and 2016, and could also use his protected ranking to enter.

Pain-free Andy Murray optimistic about return to tennis

A wildcard has been reserved for former world number one <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-returns-to-court-after-hip-surgery-207515&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj9sbH6kYniAhU18HMBHaf_B8oQFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3aj44rDVOVOTLKUB3YsOEQ">Andy Murray</a> to play at the Queen's Club Championships in June but the Scottish player has been given time to confirm his participation, organisers said on Tuesday.

Murray, a three-time Grand Slam champion, has not played competitively since his first round exit at the Australian Open in January.

He has since <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/andy-murray-to-retire-this-year-due-to-pain-from-surgically-repaired-hip-189553&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj9sbH6kYniAhU18HMBHaf_B8oQFjAFegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0txf8tWQHE8nTScvgcZDHK">undergone hip resurfacing surgery</a>.

The 31-year-old said last month he was pain-free but under no pressure to return and that he would attempt to make a comeback only if his body allowed it.

"A wildcard is being held for five-time champion Andy Murray, who will confirm closer to the time if he's fit enough to compete," organisers said in a statement.

The tournament's main draw begins on June 17.

The Queen's Club Championships, where Murray last won the title in 2016, has traditionally been a warm-up tournament for Wimbledon.

Organisers said in February that defending champion Marin Cilic would take part this year while Kevin Anderson, Juan Martin del Potro, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Stan Wawrinka have also confirmed their participation. 
&nbsp;

A wildcard has been reserved for former world number one Andy Murray to play at the Queen's Club Championships in June but the Scottish player has been given time to confirm his participation, organisers said on Tuesday.

A wildcard has been reserved for former world number one Andy Murray to play at the Queen's Club Championships in June but the Scottish player has been given time to confirm his participation, organisers said on Tuesday. Murray, a three-time Grand Slam champion, has not played competitively since his first round exit at the Australian Open in January. He has since undergone hip resurfacing surgery. The 31-year-old said last month he was pain-free but under no pressure to return and that he would attempt to make a comeback only if his body allowed it. "A wildcard is being held for five-time champion Andy Murray, who will confirm closer to the time if he's fit enough to compete," organisers said in a statement. The tournament's main draw begins on June 17. The Queen's Club Championships, where Murray last won the title in 2016, has traditionally been a warm-up tournament for Wimbledon. Organisers said in February that defending champion Marin Cilic would take part this year while Kevin Anderson, Juan Martin del Potro, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Stan Wawrinka have also confirmed their participation.

Andy Murray given wildcard for Queen's Club Championships

Andy Murray has returned to a tennis court two months after undergoing hip resurfacing surgery.

Murray, who has not played competitively since his first round exit at the Australian Open in January, said last month he could possibly play at Wimbledon as he was now pain-free after the surgery.

The 31-year-old posted a short video on Instagram, where he was seen hitting the ball in an outdoor court while rallying with a wall with a caption, "It's a start."

Murray had said he was not sure he could play in the singles draw at Wimbledon, a tournament he has won twice, but targeted a possible return in doubles at this year's tournament as it put less stress on his hip.

The three-time Grand Slam champion compared his situation to that of American doubles player Bob Bryan who returned to the court 5-1/2 months after a similar procedure.

This year's Wimbledon begins on July 1.

Andy Murray has returned to a tennis court two months after undergoing hip resurfacing surgery. Murray, who has not played competitively since his first round exit at the Australian Open in January, said last month he could possibly play at Wimbledon as he was now pain-free after the surgery.

Andy Murray has returned to a tennis court two months after undergoing hip resurfacing surgery. Murray, who has not played competitively since his first round exit at the Australian Open in January, said last month he could possibly play at Wimbledon as he was now pain-free after the surgery. The 31-year-old posted a short video on Instagram, where he was seen hitting the ball in an outdoor court while rallying with a wall with a caption, "It's a start." Murray had said he was not sure he could play in the singles draw at Wimbledon, a tournament he has won twice, but targeted a possible return in doubles at this year's tournament as it put less stress on his hip. The three-time Grand Slam champion compared his situation to that of American doubles player Bob Bryan who returned to the court 5-1/2 months after a similar procedure. This year's Wimbledon begins on July 1.

Andy Murray returns to court after hip surgery

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Andy+Murray">Andy Murray</a> will put his "heart and soul" into trying to return to professional tennis, his mother Judy has said, although she admitted the player's future is unclear.

The 31-year-old underwent hip resurfacing surgery at the end of January in a final throw of the dice to try to overcome the problem that first became a serious issue in 2017.

The operation was performed primarily to improve his quality of life, with Murray revealing that he struggled simply to put on his socks and shoes, but also offered a potential route back to the sport.

"He is doing pretty well. It is not that long since he had the operation and time will tell," Judy Murray told Sky Sports.

"Nobody knows how he is going to recover in the longer term. He is in a good place mentally and we just keep our fingers crossed.

"But I tell you, if anybody can do it he can because he will put his heart and soul into it like he does with everything."

The former world number one announced at an emotional press conference ahead of the Australian Open in January that he planned to retire after Wimbledon but was more hopeful following a remarkable five-set defeat by Roberto Bautista Agut in the first round.

No player has come back from the same operation to play singles but American Bob Bryan recently returned in doubles and won an ATP Tour title in Delray Beach last month with his brother Mike.

Bryan said in Australia that he no longer felt any pain and backed Murray to follow him by making a comeback.&nbsp;

Andy Murray will put his "heart and soul" into trying to return to professional tennis, his mother Judy has said, although she admitted the player's future is unclear.

Andy Murray will put his "heart and soul" into trying to return to professional tennis, his mother Judy has said, although she admitted the player's future is unclear. The 31-year-old underwent hip resurfacing surgery at the end of January in a final throw of the dice to try to overcome the problem that first became a serious issue in 2017. The operation was performed primarily to improve his quality of life, with Murray revealing that he struggled simply to put on his socks and shoes, but also offered a potential route back to the sport. "He is doing pretty well. It is not that long since he had the operation and time will tell," Judy Murray told Sky Sports. "Nobody knows how he is going to recover in the longer term. He is in a good place mentally and we just keep our fingers crossed. "But I tell you, if anybody can do it he can because he will put his heart and soul into it like he does with everything." The former world number one announced at an emotional press conference ahead of the Australian Open in January that he planned to retire after Wimbledon but was more hopeful following a remarkable five-set defeat by Roberto Bautista Agut in the first round. No player has come back from the same operation to play singles but American Bob Bryan recently returned in doubles and won an ATP Tour title in Delray Beach last month with his brother Mike. Bryan said in Australia that he no longer felt any pain and backed Murray to follow him by making a comeback.

Andy Murray will put 'heart and soul' into return, says mum Judy

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