Andy Murray's Love For Tennis Could Extend His Career, Says Schwartzman
Andy Murray's enduring passion for tennis could extend his career, according to former world number eight Diego Schwartzman. Despite undergoing surgeries on both hips in 2018 and 2019, Murray continues to compete. The three-time major champion has indicated he may retire soon, revealing in February that he does not plan to play much past this summer.
Murray is currently preparing for what is likely his final appearance at the French Open, having missed five of the last six tournaments at Roland-Garros. Schwartzman believes Murray's love for the game might keep him playing longer than expected. "His life is tennis, and I think he enjoys it. I think this is his legacy," Schwartzman told Stats Perform.
Schwartzman, who won his only tour-level meeting with Murray in Antwerp in 2021, added, "No matter what you do, your age or how you are doing, if you really love the sport and you love what you do, you can do it and push hard for as many years and as many tournaments as you want."
He continued, "He's a fighter, a gladiator, and he's been doing the same since he was very young. For us also, sharing tournaments and moments with him, he has the passion out there. It's good to see these kinds of guys because tennis always needs players who love the sport."
Murray has faced significant competition throughout his career, particularly from Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer. The Scot has lost five grand slam finals to Djokovic and one to Federer. Schwartzman highlighted the importance of preparation as a key lesson learned from competing alongside these greats.
"I know them very well, playing them on court and outside of it," the Argentine said. "The good thing for me and many guys who share tournaments with them is how differently they prepare. How differently they do things with food, practice—everything. It's crazy."
Schwartzman refrained from naming the greatest player of all time but acknowledged the unique strengths each player brings to the game. "I think, okay, 'in one small way he's the best at this side of the game,' and then another one is the best at another aspect," he noted.
Since 2023, Novak Djokovic has hit more winners in men's singles at Grand Slam events than any other player, registering over 1,000 winners during this period (1248), according to OptaAce.
I think the best athletes/players are the quickest thinkers and this is perfect illustration of this. Notice how Rafa gets up from the fallSees that the incoming ball is slow enough that he will reach it so takes a split second to wipe his right hand on his thigh in case he pic.twitter.com/3FKL9ZsVXa
— Andy Murray (@andy_murray) May 9, 2024
Murray's career achievements include one US Open title and two Wimbledon crowns. His competitive spirit and dedication to tennis continue to inspire both fans and fellow players alike.
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