Andy Murray of Britain celebrates after beating Tomas Berdych of the Czech Republic in their men’s semifinal singles match on day twelve of the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, Friday, July 8, 2016. (AP Photo/Tim Ireland)
Two-time Wimbledon champion Andy Murray is likely to be honored with a statue at the historic Grand Slam venue, the All England Club’s chief executive told the BBC.
The 31-year-old Scot — who won the grasscourt Grand Slam in 2013 and 2016 — announced last Friday retirement was on the cards due to a chronic hip injury.
He then choked back tears and broke down as he revealed he hoped to end his career at Wimbledon, but admitted the Australian Open which began Monday could be his last event because the constant pain was so bad.
Richard Lewis, chief executive of the All England Club, said Murray could well be honored in the same manner as fellow Briton and multiple Wimbledon men’s singles champion Fred Perry.
Perry — who won three successive Wimbledon titles from 1934-36 — had a statue unveiled in 1984.
“We always felt that when Andy retired, that would be the appropriate time to recognise his extraordinary career,” said Lewis.
“I am sure something like (a statue) will be done, but meanwhile down at the club he is seen as a highly-respected person both on and off the court.”