Andy Murray, 37, lost in straight sets to fellow veteran Stan Wawrinka – but said he was proud of what he has achieved at the French Open throughout his career.
Andy Murray has lost in the first round of the French Open – in what is likely to be his last singles appearance at Roland Garros.
The former world number one, 37, waved goodbye to the crowd as he left Court Philippe Chatrier after being beaten 6-4, 6-4, 6-2 by fellow veteran Stan Wawrinka.
The two long-time opponents met at the net for a handshake, an embrace and a lengthy chat.
“It was emotional, for sure. We’re getting closer to the end,” said Wawrinka.
“We have a lot of respect for each other,” added the 39-year-old Swiss player.
Murray’s last three matches on the Paris clay have now ended in defeat to Wawrinka.
In 2017 they played an epic semi-final, which Murray lost in five brutal sets. In 2020, the Scot suffered a straight-set defeat – like the match on Sunday night.
Murray, who had hip replacement surgery several years ago, ruptured ankle ligaments at the Miami Open in March, and has only recently returned to action.
“My body isn’t what it was 10 years ago. I’m fully aware of that,” he said.
“Physically, tennis is not easy for me nowadays.”
He had his serve broken in the first game – and again early in the second and third sets, while going 0 for 2 on his own break chances.
“Obviously disappointed,” he said. “He gave me very few opportunities.”
The winner of three Grand Slams and a runner-up at the French Open in 2016, Murray left the court to loud, appreciative applause – with Wawrinka joining in.
He said he was proud of what he has achieved in Paris – even if it pales in comparison with what his rivals and all-time greats Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic have done.
“I did really well here over the years,” Murray said.
“I think the issue for me is that when you compare it to what Rafa or Novak achieved in the same time, it obviously is minuscule in comparison.”
But, he added, “most players would sign up for the results I’ve had here.
“I played a final, I think four semis and made the quarters a couple of times as well. I lost in the semis to Novak in five, Stan in five, and twice to Rafa. Obviously no shame in that.
“In a different time maybe the results would have been a bit different. But I’m proud of the results that I had here. I had great memories.”
He added: “It was a good run here over the years.”
Murray still has the men’s doubles to play, alongside Dan Evans.
The Scot has not announced his retirement plans, but has said he does not expect to play much beyond this summer.
He will now turn his attention to the grass-court season. He is entered into Surbiton next week.