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Rumours have been circulating in recent times surrounding a possible retirement for Andy Murray after the 2022 US Open. Murray hasn’t specifically mentioned those words in any recent interviews, but speculations have emerged for a few reasons. Firstly, Murray has been stating that his cramping issues have become a big concern. This was evident during his matches against both Wawrinka and Norrie at the Masters 1000 event in Cincinnati.
Secondly, people tend to forget that the man is out there competing with a metal hip. I won’t pretend to know what level of pain Murray is in on a day-to-day basis, or on the court. But what I can assume is that he must feel somewhat hindered by this when he is facing the very best players. Thirdly, Murray has repeatedly claimed that he wants a deep-draw run in a Grand Slam.
Remember, Murray is a multi-slam winner, and he was considered part of the ‘big 4’ before injuries plagued his career. So what happens if he endures heavy cramps and fails to go beyond the first few rounds in the 2022 US Open? Could this really signify the end of Murray’s career? I’ve shared my thoughts below.
The US Open 2022 and Its Role in Murray’s Retirement Plans
Despite what happens at the 2022 US Open, I don’t think that Murray will just call it a day there and then. He is 35 years of age, and he hasn’t exactly had tons of success in recent times. Then again, things are certainly looking more promising than they did at the 2019 Australian Open when he all but announced his retirement. Obviously, Murray has had a change of heart since then and he is still plugging away.
As to whether the 2022 US Open could be the end, I don’t necessarily think so. Here’s why:
Commitment to Laver Cup
One major reason that I don’t think the US Open will be the end is because of the Laver Cup. This team event is due to kick off towards the end of September, and Murray is confirmed as a participant. So this alone shows to me that an imminent retirement after the US Open is highly unlikely.
Unfinished Business
Above Murray’s participation in the Laver Cup, it’s clear that he feels he has unfinished business in the sport. Part of me feels that he just needs one good run to prove to himself that he still has what it takes. And while that deep-draw run at a major eludes him, I don’t think that Murray could bring himself to hang his rackets up.
Still Competing With the Best in the Game
Although speculation about his retirement has been around for a while, we cannot ignore that he is still pushing and beating the best in the business. His current ranking is 49 in the world too, so he is obviously still a top player himself. And looking back at his results in 2022, he has managed to grab wins against guys like Tsitsipas, Kyrgios, Shapovalov, and others.
So is he past it just yet? I don’t think so!
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