Andy Murray misses Davis Cup to find feet on clay

 

Derrick Whyte
Thursday 31 January 2013 21:44 GMT
Comments
Andy Murray will miss the Davis Cup tie against Russia
Andy Murray will miss the Davis Cup tie against Russia (AP)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Andy Murray will miss Great Britain's Davis Cup tie against Russia at Coventry's Ricoh Arena on 5-7 April to focus on the clay season.

The Australian Open finalist has decided to concentrate on his weakest surface immediately after the hard-court tournaments in Indian Wells and Miami have been completed in March.

Murray's absence is a big blow to Britain's hopes of climbing back into the world group, as if they win the Russia tie, they head into a play-off to rejoin the elite.

Murray has pledged to play for the team in September and the world No 3 said: "It's a shame to miss out on the Davis Cup, as I always enjoy playing. I speak to [the Great Britain captain] Leon Smith and the team on a regular basis and will definitely be available to play the next Davis Cup tie later this year."

Smith said: "We totally understand Andy's position. He has worked extremely hard on his game, elevating it to another level, and we have all seen the fruits of that since Wimbledon.

"Andy's success continues to inspire more and more young people to take up the sport and we look forward to welcoming him back into the team in September."

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in