Andy Murray issues heartfelt apology after pulling out of home Davis Cup tie

Murray will remain in the United States to continue rehabilitation on his hip

Jack Watson
Tuesday 04 September 2018 14:10 BST
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Andy Murray has written a heartfelt apology to Scottish tennis fans after opting to not play in Great Britain’s Davis Cup tie against Uzbekistan in Glasgow next week, in what was likely to be his last appearance playing in Scotland as a professional.

After being knocked out in the second round of US Open, Murray has decided to stay in the United States for further rehabilitation on his right hip as he continues to search for a way back to the top.

In a long message on his Instagram, Murray emphasised the many highlights of his participation in the competition, including the four ties he played in in 2015 when he led Britain to the title alongside his brother, Jamie.

"I just wanted to write a quick message to apologise to the British Davis cup team and all the fans who are coming to watch in Glasgow and support on TV,” he said.

"I have genuinely loved competing in this Davis cup format over the course of my career and have had some of the most memorable and special moments (the lob) of my career competing for my country.

"With this possibly being my last chance to compete in Scotland as a professional I really wanted to be there with team and found this decision emotionally quite challenging.”

Temperatures exceeded 36 degrees Celsius during the second-round encounter in New York
Temperatures exceeded 36 degrees Celsius during the second-round encounter in New York (AP)

Murray wanted to participate in the doubles team, but agreed with the captain, Leon Smith, that it is best for him to take a break and focus on rebuilding his game and playing at his best.

"I had spoken to our captain, Leon, about possibly coming to just play doubles but having been recommended to take a couple of weeks off hitting to continue my reconditioning I didn't want to just show up not ready to perform to a high enough standard and ultimately let my teammates/country down.

"If I don't get the chance to compete in Scotland again I just want to say thank you so much to all the fans who have come along to watch and support the team over the years. You have created some incredible atmospheres for me and the team to play in and I will always remember that.

"Having been born in Glasgow and growing up in Scotland I would never have imagined I would see such passionate fans packing out stadiums for tennis matches. Playing with my Big Bro in those stadiums has been very very special."

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