Andy Murray will undergo surgery on his back on Saturday after suffering an injury at Queen’s Club.
The 37-year-old is hoping to make a farewell appearance at Wimbledon, and that has not yet been ruled out despite Murray going under the knife just over a week before the tournament.
The Scot struggled from the start of his second-round match against Jordan Thompson on Wednesday and pulled out after only five games.
Andy Murray has treatment to his back (Zac Goodwin/PA)
A statement from his management said: “Andy is having a procedure on his back tomorrow. We will know more after this has taken place and will update further as soon as possible.”
Murray described feeling a weakness in his right leg and losing coordination. He sought on-court treatment after three games but soon decided he could not continue.
On his chances of competing at SW19, Murray said: “Like all tennis players, we have degenerative joints and stuff in the back but it’s all predominantly been left-sided for me my whole career.
“I have never had too many issues with the right side. So maybe there is something that can be done between now and then to help the right side.”
Andy Murray during a press conference at Queen’s Club (Zac Goodwin/PA)
This is not the first time Murray has suffered a back problem in his career. He underwent surgery in 2013, while after a first-round loss at the French Open last month he revealed he would need treatment to address soreness.
The three-time grand slam champion only returned to the match court five weeks ago after nearly two months out with an ankle injury.
He is due to play singles and doubles with his brother Jamie at Wimbledon before potentially bringing his career to a close at the Olympics in Paris, but both of those are now in doubt.
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