Murray withdraws from Olympics tennis singles

Andy Murray has withdrawn from the tennis singles at the Paris Olympics but will still take part in the doubles, the two-time gold medallist said on Thursday.

The British former world number one, who will retire at the end of his fifth Games, has still not fully recovered from back surgery he had last month.

He believes the men’s doubles, where he is playing with Dan Evans, offers his best chance of another medal.

“I’ve taken the decision to withdraw from the singles to concentrate on the doubles with Dan,” said the 37-year-old.

“Our practice has been great and we’re playing well together. Really looking forward to getting started and representing GB one more time.”

Murray won gold in singles in London in 2012 and in Rio four years later, as well as silver in mixed doubles with Laura Robson in 2012.

His withdrawal means his final singles match was his brief second-round appearance at Queen’s Club against Jordan Thompson last month before he was forced to pull out because of a spinal cyst.