Emma Raducanu practice partner 'torn' over Andy Murray controversy at Wimbledon

Emma Raducanu drew criticism for pulling out of the mixed doubles

Emma Raducanu drew criticism for pulling out of the mixed doubles

REUTERS
Stuart Ballard

By Stuart Ballard


Published: 09/07/2024

- 15:37

Emma Raducanu appeared to anger Judy Murray after she pulled out of the mixed doubles at Wimbledon.

British tennis star Liam Broady has been left 'torn' over the fallout from Emma Raducanu's decision to pull out of the mixed doubles, which effectively ended Andy Murray's Wimbledon career.

Murray entered Wimbledon having undergone back surgery the week prior to the tournament.


He didn't feel fit enough to compete in the singles draw and withdrew from the event hours before his scheduled match on Tuesday.

But the three-time major champion was still going ahead with his plan to play in the men's doubles alongside brother Jamie while also making a late entry to the mixed doubles draw with Raducanu.

Emma Raducanu drew criticism for pulling out of the mixed doubles

Emma Raducanu drew criticism for pulling out of the mixed doubles

REUTERS

Murray was given a touching tribute on Centre Court following his men's doubles match on Thursday, but he was still scheduled to play at least one more event two days later.

The match alongside Raducanu had to be scheduled last on Court One due to one of their opponents still playing in the men's doubles earlier that day.

But the 21-year-old pulled out of the match after waking up with 'stiffness' in her wrist.

That decision ultimately ended Murray's Wimbledon career without a final goodbye on court.

Judy Murray appeared to take a dig at the young British star with her reaction on social media.

Broady is close to both compatriots and was on the practice courts with Raducanu last week.

The 30-year-old doesn't feel it's fair to blame Raducanu for making the decision to withdraw, but he can understand Murray's disappointment.

"It's such a tough one. I'll be honest, I am friends with both of them, so I am torn between both of them," he told talkSPORT.

Emma Raducanu was knocked out of Wimbledon on Sunday

Emma Raducanu was knocked out of Wimbledon on Sunday

REUTERS

"One thing I was always taught from a very early age from my dad was life on the tour you've got to be selfish, to be one of the best singles players, you have got to look after yourself.

"Obviously, Emma took a medical timeout yesterday. Her body didn't look 100 per cent, she was having some issues with her back as well as her wrist over the past few days.

"On the other hand, it is so difficult for Andy.

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Judy Murray issued a response on social media

Judy Murray issued a response on social media

GETTY

"I think he wanted to play one more time at Wimbledon, which would have been so special for him and the fans.

"I can't fault either of them, to be honest.

"If you've got niggles before your fourth round match at Wimbledon at the age of 21, you're going to prioritise that.

"It's a tough one for Andy to swallow, isn't it? I can understand both sides."

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