WATCH: Andy Murray withdraws from Canadian Open minutes before clash against Jannik Sinner, questions on US Open participation arise

Murray's untimely withdrawal was only the third time in his great career that he had to give a walkover.

WATCH: Andy Murray withdraws from Canadian Open minutes before clash against Jannik Sinner, questions on US Open participation arise

Andy Murray (Credit: @TennisTV/Twitter)

Andy Murray was forced to retire from the Canadian Open on Thursday evening due to an abdominal ailment, leaving fans and fellow players devastated. Murray’s hopes of moving further in the event were shattered when he pulled out just before his planned meeting with Jannik Sinner, despite a remarkable display of perseverance in his initial rounds against Lorenzo Sonego and Max Purcell.

Murray conveyed his sadness to the stadium crowd, saying, “I have an issue with my abdominal, so unfortunately I’m not going to be able to play this evening.”

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Murray’s untimely withdrawal was only the third time in his great career that he had to give a walkover. His emotional agony was heightened by the thought that this could be his final appearance in Toronto as a three-time ATP Masters 1000 champion. Murray’s chances of reaching his first quarter-final at the event since his historic 2015 title run, as well as his first Masters quarter-final since capturing the Paris crown in 2016, were dashed.

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Despite the defeat, Murray’s recent on-court success was recognized, as he advanced four places to No. 36 in the Pepperstone ATP Live Rankings. His remarkable performances this week have propelled him to his highest rating since 2018, providing hope for his future ambitions.

“I’m really sorry. I feel like I’ve let you down. I’ve rarely been in this situation in my career, and I feel terrible,” he said to the fans.

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Andy Murray shows grit in hard-fought victory over Max Purcell

Andy Murray
Andy Murray (Credit: The Mirror)

Murray demonstrated extraordinary determination and masterful talent on the court as he overcame the hurdles given by Australia’s Max Purcell to a thrilling victory. Despite his victorious rise, Murray’s journey took an unexpected turn when he withdrew from the tournament due to a recurring abdominal injury.

The former world number one demonstrated his unwavering fighting spirit. Murray asserted his control early in the match, breaking Purcell’s serve and holding tight to establish an early lead. Purcell, on the other hand, reacted quickly, demonstrating his own abilities and resolve to level the playing field.

The match finished in a hotly contested first-set tie-break amid tense rallies and magnificent shot-making. Murray’s tactical prowess and methodical play shone through, allowing him to win the tie-break with a 7-6(2) victory.

Purcell mounted a valiant comeback in the second set, capitalizing on a vital break of serve to win the set and tie the match. As the two contestants engaged in a mental and physical struggle, it was clear that neither was taking any chances.

Murray’s unrelenting devotion to greatness shined through in the pivotal third set. He gained a vital opportunity as he broke Purcell’s serve to take a 7-5 victory in the final set, sealing a hard-earned victory.

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