The atmosphere in the locker room on Thursday night was quite surreal with Andy Murray. I found myself teary-eyed because he’s a close friend, making the farewell quite poignant.
Andy always takes a bit longer to shower due to the numerous interview requests he gets, so my wife, his mother, and I were left waiting for a while for him to wrap up after the match.
True to Andy’s demeanor, we didn’t have any grand celebrations; no champagne toasting. Instead, we simply applauded him, took a few team photos, and opened a bottle of coke.
When the physio approached him to give treatment, Andy quipped, ‘You’re not allowed to touch me anymore, Shane… it’s over,’ displaying his hallmark dry wit. It was heartening to see him and everyone share a good laugh.
For some time, Andy has accepted that this is the conclusion of his career. He seemed more upset about the match result than about it being his final appearance on the court. As a friend, it was reassuring to see him in a good place, ready for what lies ahead.
Dan Evans (right) partnered Andy Murray (left) in the last match of the Scot’s career this week
Murray, 37, bowed out at Roland Garros as he and Evans lost to Tommy Paul and Taylor Fritz
During our ten days in Paris, the warmth we felt was overwhelming, making it one of the finest experiences I’ve had. Winning our second match against the Belgian team, coming back in the super tie break, was a feeling I believe I will never replicate.
I felt completely numb as I went to shake hands; my legs felt like jelly. It was akin to the thrill of childhood excitement.
After our defeat to the American duo on Thursday, we quickly hopped into a car back to the Athletes’ Village. I felt emotionally drained. Doubles is quite unfamiliar territory for both of us, yet we consistently found ways to secure victories. At one point in the match, down by a set and 4-1, I had my first ever light-hearted exchange with Andy on the court. I remarked, ‘Imagine if we manage to turn this around.’ He just laughed and replied, ‘Let’s enjoy this while we can.’
The focus shifted away from tennis, and it felt like two friends just playing for the pleasure of it. We abandoned strategy discussions and simply gave it our best effort. We didn’t go out quietly, and I feel proud of that.
The combination of attitude and work ethic can take you far, and I think our journey represents that. Andy could execute everything — from a powerful serve to a world-class volley — but he was always bold and tenacious. His game centered on his skills on the court, and despite others suggesting he change his approach, he consistently trusted his instincts.
Tears were shed by both Murray and Evans as they shared a post-match hug at Roland Garros
An emotional Murray pictured waving as he left court following the final match of his career
Experiencing those emotions with Andy was something I never anticipated. As we walked from the locker room to the car, I remarked, ‘Wow, this feels so different from last time.’
I was utterly spent, both physically and emotionally. It might not have been our finest match, but we gave it our all until the very last point, so there’s little to regret.
Back at the Village, we shared a pizza before calling it a night. No extravagant celebrations.
I still felt somewhat low during breakfast, but Andy was busy discussing what we could have improved in the match. You won’t find anyone who loves tennis as much as he does.
All the athletes received a notification to gather at the Team GB lodge at 11:15 a.m. on Friday for some speeches. Adam Peaty was present wearing a Covid mask, and he was tasked with presenting Andy with a commemorative silver pin badge for competing in five Olympics.
Despite losing on Thursday, Murray and Evans still produced some moments of magic in Paris
Murray waved goodbye to tennis at Roland Garros with the five Olympic rings behind him
It was a touching moment, and I’m sure the badge will fit in nicely with the 60 or 70 others he’s collected over the week!
We also had a heartfelt discussion about what the future holds. Many will approach him in the coming days to commend him on his remarkable career. I’m uncertain how much he’ll appreciate that! It’s bound to be an odd sensation for him.
Before we parted ways, we chatted about returning home and adjusting back to normal life. For me, it’s about recovering from my ankle injury before focusing on the upcoming US Open and Davis Cup.
As for Andy, it’s time for him to prioritize himself. I believe he’ll make an excellent coach in the future, but that time isn’t now. He’s carried the hopes of a nation for so long; now is his opportunity to relax, play some golf, and take care of his family. He often video-calls his kids, but now he can truly be a full-time dad.
The landscape of British tennis now has a significant gap to fill. Andy achieved what many could not. He broke into the elite ranks and became a leading figure in British sports. He advocated for those without a voice and didn’t shy away from confronting challenging issues on and off the court, including advocating for equal pay.
Murray won three Grand Slam singles titles during his career, including Wimbledon twice
He possesses a generous spirit, and I’m honored to have been by his side as he closed this chapter of his life.
On Friday, we shared a hug before I headed to the airport after lunch, boarding a flight back to Birmingham. The past ten days have felt somewhat surreal, and it’s an experience I will cherish forever.
