Murray's slam farewell shattered by withdrawal

Andy Murray has been ruled out of Wimbledon just days before the competition commences.

The 37-year-old was forced to retire during his match against Australia’s Jordan Thompson, with the former world No.1 sent for scans for a nerve-related issue.

According to The Telegraph, Murray underwent surgery for a spinal cyst and has been advised to have a six-week lay-off period, resulting in his withdrawal from the Championships at SW19.

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The Scottish-born star is now in doubt to compete at the Olympic Games, meaning he will miss his final opportunity to claim the gold medal in what would be his fifth appearance at the Games.

He was also set to appear in the doubles tournament at the All England Club with brother Jaime.

Murray has encountered several injury concerns throughout his playing career, with his Australian Open exit sending him into semi-retirement in 2019.

Murray informed reporters of his lingering back issues following his defeat at Queen’s last week.

“I didn’t get the right side of my back treated after the French Open [a few weeks ago],” he said.

“All tennis players have degenerative joints in the back but it’s all predominantly been left-sided for me for pretty much my whole career. I’ve never had too many issues with the right side.

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“Maybe there’s something which can be done between now and then [Wimbledon] with my right side – I will have a scan tomorrow and re-check and see what can be done.

“I don’t know exactly what the problem is. I just know I haven’t experienced that before – the back pain today and yesterday. I don’t know what the procedure will be or what to expect.”

Murray won two of his three slam titles in Wimbledon in 2013 and 2016.

He has yet to comment on his withdrawal.