Andy Murray is exploring the option of playing in the French Open doubles tournament this year as part of his preparation for the 2024 Olympic Games.
Murray has been out of action since losing to Tomas Machac in the third round of the Miami Open. He ruptured ankle ligaments towards the end of that match and was reportedly set to be on the sidelines for a considerable period.
There were concerns that Murray might have played his last match on tour, with the Miami Open tournament director James Blake hoping tennis fans did not see the last of the former World No. 1 on the court.
Thankfully, Murray avoided surgery. His spokesperson confirmed the news in mid-April while also informing the tennis fraternity that the Scotsman's rehab was "going well."
The three-time Grand Slam champion intends to hang up his racket during the European summer, with the Olympic Games expected to be Murray's last hurrah.
For now, he wants to get his body in shape for clay and hinted at making his comeback at Roland Garros, which begins in late May. Murray has been training on the dirt for a few weeks, although he withdrew from this fortnight's Madrid Open.
According to inews in the UK, Murray is planning to play doubles at Roland Garros. He is currently signed up to play only in the singles tournament. However, the report indicated that he has also entered the doubles tournament and is set to team up with fellow Brit Daniel Evans.
Since resuming his career after undergoing hip resurfacing surgery in 2019, Murray has tried to avoid clay in a bid to prolong his playing career. But with retirement very much in sight, it is no longer a risky move to test himself on the surface.
Murray has played one match at the French Open since 2020, losing in the first round to Stan Wawrinka four years ago. With the Olympics tennis tournament set to take place at the same venue as the clay Slam, the 36-year-old sees it as a perfect opportunity to refine his game.
The two-time Olympic gold medalist will also look to improve his endurance before the Games as he seeks a third medal. However, the doubles tournament might be his best bet to add to his collection; hence his reported decision to play French Open doubles.
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