Andy Murray stood firmly behind his decision to avoid Hip Surgery. Almost six months after making that decision, he saw himself forced off the tennis courts even longer as the bad hip kept causing him nightmares. Ultimately, he went for the riskier decision in undergoing a surgery that might prolong his professional career. The dark side of the story is that he won't be competing for several months. This fact does nothing but to cast a shadow of doubt about his future endeavors as a top tennis player. Even the most optimistic prognosis puts Andy on a lengthy recovery.
Given the complexity of the human body, the hip is one of the most crucial parts of that ensemble. Gustavo Kuerten is another relevant name in the sport who has had to deal with major hip issues. He was never able to return to the previous form which led him to three French Open championships and he was eventually forced into an early retirement from the sport.
Andy Murray and a one-year hiatus from tennis
The 2017 Wimbledon Championship was Andy Murray's last official appearance on the tennis court. He was willing to compete at the 2017 US Open but he was forced to call it an end just days before the competition's start. An official date was given to his comeback as he had targeted the Brisbane International event to start 2018.
Not fully recovered, he pulled the plug. Later, he made an emotional announcement on Facebook that included his decision to skip 2018 Australian Open too.
The other day, he posted on Facebook again. This time it was an image picturing him on a hospital bed with Jamie Delgado close by, mainly for moral support.
It seems that the surgery went well and Andy Murray is looking into the future from a different perspective now.
The grass season at large, and 2018 Wimbledon Championships, in particular, seems the main target for this year.
Hip surgery opened up the door for a strategy adjustment
By the time he is fit enough to compete on a professional level again, Andy Murray will have spent about a year outside of the competitive field. Regardless of a player's skill or value, this means a lot and the comeback bid won't be that easy.
A possible winning strategy would have Murray aiming for the big events only. The Masters 1000 chunk along with the Grand Slam box should do the trick. Last but not least, a sabbatic year away from tennis and all the pressure that comes with might help Murray reflect on his future priorities. After all, he is a husband and a father of two and it's fair to say that he might deserve some extra-time with his loved ones.
