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'I didn't want to play': Andy Murray's new lease after surgery

Scottish tennis superstar Andy Murray could be poised to make a stunning comeback, just months after seeming destined for retirement.

The BBC has reported the 32-year-old Murray will play doubles at Queen’s this week, after another round of hip surgery left him feeling better than he had felt in some time.

The writing appeared to be on the wall for Murray after his first round exit at the Australian Open, with the Brit signalling Wimbledon would likely be his final tournament.

But Murray’s recovery from the January operation has surprised everyone - including the man himself.

"I didn't expect to be in this position," Murray said.

"I didn't know how it would feel if I went and had the operation. But it has been brilliant, completely life-changing for me from where I was.

"I'm looking forward to getting back out there, but I don't know what to expect and I'm not putting any kind of expectations on myself.

Andy Murray during a practice session prior to the Fever-Tree Championships at Queens Club on June 16, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Chloe Knott - Danehouse/Getty Images)
Andy Murray during a practice session prior to the Fever-Tree Championships at Queens Club on June 16, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Chloe Knott - Danehouse/Getty Images)

"Just being out on the tennis court and being pain free is enough."

Prior to the operation, Murray said he had struggled with even the simplest of tasks, such as putting his socks on.

At the time, it felt like returning to a world class level of tennis would be impossible.

The pain was so bad, according to Murray, he had all but lost his joy for the game.

“There have been a number of times over the past 18 months where I did want to stop. I was getting no enjoyment out of tennis at all, whether that be training, practice, matches," he said.

"I wasn't bothered about winning matches either because it wasn't fun.

"Now I like playing tennis, getting out on the court and hitting balls. I want to keep playing if I can because I enjoy it.

"It would be nice to be winning Wimbledon and other major tournaments but hardly anyone gets the opportunity to do that.

"There are loads of players and it is still about having the love and enjoyment for the sport without being able to win the biggest competitions.

“I would hope I would be able to deal with that absolutely fine."