Novak Djokovic has sent a classy message to Andy Murray ahead of the Olympics (Image: GETTY)
Novak Djokovic has sent a classy message to Andy Murray ahead of the Olympics.
Novak Djokovic has branded Andy Murray a ‘legend of our sport’ in a classy message to the Brit ahead of his fifth and final Olympics. The two-time Wimbledon champion will officially retire from tennis after the Games, where he will represent Team GB in the men’s doubles.
Murray was initially set to play in the singles event but withdrew shortly before the draw was made on Thursday morning. He will take part in the men’s doubles competition alongside Dan Evans, with Japan duo Kei Nishikori and Taro Daniel set to face them in the first round.
Djokovic, who has shared a respectful rivalry with Murray over the years, sent a classy message to him on Thursday as he offered his thoughts on the Scot’s impending retirement.
“I heard the news about Andy and I hope that he will have the best possible farewell in his last competitive match in the Olympics, for him and his country,” said Djokovic. “He is a legend of our sport and has been an incredibly important player for tennis globally.”
Murray has faced Djokovic on no less than 36 occasions, winning 11 times with his Serbian rival having the upper hand in the majority of their matches. He is only a week younger than Murray, who has lost 14 of their last 17 encounters since winning Wimbledon in 2013.
The man from Dunblane was given a rousing reception in his final match at Wimbledon earlier this month but it seems he will be denied a farewell ceremony at the Olympics. There have been calls for Murray to be honoured at the end of his glittering 19-year career but it has been reported that the International Olympic Committee will not allow it.
