Andy Murray Admits He Has No Desire to Play Tennis After Retirement
Andy Murray has revealed that he has no desire to return to professional tennis after retiring, despite making a brief appearance in an exhibition match. Months after ending his career at the Paris Olympics, the three-time Grand Slam champion transitioned into coaching, working with longtime rival Novak Djokovic. While he enjoys analyzing from the sidelines, Murray made a heartfelt confession—he no longer even has the ability to serve.
Murray officially retired following the 2024 Olympic Games, where he partnered with Dan Evans in the men’s doubles event. The pair reached the quarter-finals before bowing out, marking the end of Murray’s illustrious career. Initially, he seemed eager to step away from the sport, focusing on other passions like golf. However, just four months later, he surprised many by joining Djokovic’s coaching team for the off-season and the Australian Open.
Despite his brief return to the court for a lighthearted mixed doubles exhibition alongside Djokovic in Melbourne, Murray insists he has no desire to play again.
“I Have No Desire to Play”
Speaking on Chris Hoy’s Sporting Misadventures podcast, Murray opened up about life after retirement.
“I’ve got to do a few things that I’d always wanted to since I finished playing,” he shared. “And yeah, I really enjoyed that side of it. That’s helped me—I really have not missed playing at all.
“I’ve hit tennis balls maybe three times since the Olympics in Paris, and I have no desire to do it right now. Maybe at some stage, I will want to play again, but right now, I don’t.”
Murray Admits He Can No Longer Serve
Beyond his lack of desire to compete, Murray admitted that his body simply won’t allow him to play at the level he once did.
“The times that I did play, I was terrible,” he confessed. “I played so badly, but I actually enjoyed it. I didn’t find it frustrating—I just hit with some friends and had fun, even though I can’t really play anymore.
“I can’t move, my shoulder is gone, and I can’t serve.”
Although he occasionally enjoys hitting a few balls, the former world No. 1 made it clear that he doesn’t miss competing.
Coaching Djokovic: A New Chapter
While Murray has no plans to pick up a racket competitively, he seems content in his new coaching role. His initial agreement with Djokovic was for the Australian Open, but reports suggest their partnership could extend through Wimbledon.
According to The Times, discussions between the two are ongoing, with Indian Wells potentially serving as their next meeting point. Djokovic also works with Carlos Gomez-Herrera, his longtime hitting partner and coach, meaning Murray will likely focus on strategy rather than on-court training.
As Murray continues to adjust to life after professional tennis, one thing is clear—while he may not be playing, his passion for the sport remains as strong as ever.
