'Once In A Lifetime' - Murray Highlights London 2012 Gold As Career Peak

Andy Murray considers winning the gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics as the peak of his career. The Scottish tennis player is participating in his final tournament at this year's Paris Games, competing in doubles with Dan Evans. This marks Murray's fifth Olympics, and he remains the only male to have won two gold medals in singles, having also triumphed at Rio 2016.

Murray defeated Roger Federer in straight sets on home soil in 2012, avenging a Wimbledon final loss from a month earlier. He successfully defended his title four years later against Novak Djokovic. Despite winning three Grand Slam titles—twice at Wimbledon and once at the US Open—Murray regards his Olympic gold for Team GB as his greatest achievement.

"Winning the gold medal and obviously the silver in London is probably a big highlight," Murray told Eurosport. "Obviously Wimbledon was amazing but the way I felt that week [in London] meant the most to me. I don't always like it on the court, I do find competing very stressful, but that week, I was so happy. I really enjoyed the whole week."

Murray expressed how unique it was to compete in an Olympics held at home, acknowledging that such an opportunity is rare. "It is once in a lifetime to compete in an Olympics at home, and you know you're not going to get that opportunity again. Certainly made the most of it," he said.

The official Twitter account of the Olympic Games shared a video announcing Murray's last-ever tournament: "The last dance! Two-time Olympic #gold medallist @andy_murray announces #Paris2024 will be his last-ever tournament." pic.twitter.com/jrRCmAuOHs

Challenges and Final Tournament

Following a year plagued by injuries, Murray will not compete for a third gold medal in singles, having withdrawn from that event. Now 37 years old, he aims to make the most of his final tournament by seeking glory at Roland Garros for the first time.

"I've been really lucky," Murray explained. "Athletes don't always acknowledge that side of things, but you need a lot of luck to hang around for that long. There have been some amazing athletes who have played in five, six Olympics. I'm glad to do it one more time."

Unique Atmosphere of Olympic Games

Murray noted how different the atmosphere can be during the Olympics compared to regular tournaments. "It's amazing how just the change in the colours of the background can affect the feel of a place," he said. "Obviously, really familiar with Roland Garros and being in Paris, but the Olympics bring a different atmosphere."

He recalled experiencing this difference during London 2012: "We experienced that in London. It wasn't how Wimbledon usually is. It was a very different feel. I love that." He hopes for strong support from French fans to create an exciting atmosphere.

Murray also reflected on his near-miss in mixed doubles: "I was lucky to win a couple of medals and we were really close to getting gold in mixed as well." He felt confident throughout that week: "I did feel good going into that whole week I played."

Despite uncertainties about winning against Federer, Murray described it as one of his best matches: "I wasn't certainly sure I would win the final against Federer, but it was one of the best matches I've ever played, to be honest."

As he prepares for his final appearance at Paris 2024, Murray remains grateful for his career achievements and looks forward to ending on a high note.