Despite gaining momentum on the court in recent weeks Andy Murray has ‘no chance’ of winning another grand slam in the future, according to Goran Ivanisevic.
The British former world No.1 is currently ranked just outside the top 100 at the end of what has been a roller-coaster season. After announcing that he may be forced to retire from the sport in January due to injury, Murray underwent hip resurfacing surgery to prolong his career. A procedure that involves inserting a metal rod into his joint. During what has been a slow and steady comeback, the Brit scored a breakthrough in October by winning the European Open in what was his first title since 2017.
Whilst there have been glimmers of Murray at his top form, former Wimbledon champion Ivanisevic believes it will not be enough for him to triumph in the majors. Although he believes he will still be a threat to others on the tour.
“A Slam? No chance. But he can make some surprises, he can go far but to win I don’t think that he can survive seven matches – best-of-five,” Ivanisevic told reporters ahead of his appearance at the Champions Tennis tournament at the Royal Albert Hall.
“It’s only about health – if he’s healthy and the hip is okay I don’t think that anyone wants to play against Andy next year. He’s a great competitor and when he steps on the court, he wants to win. He’s not good for the opponents.
“It’s going to be good. I don’t know what ranking, it’s tough to say no, but if he’s healthy he can be up there.”
Backing up Ivanisevic is former US Open finalist Greg Rusedski, who will also be making an appearance at the Royal Albert Hall. Murray is one of only two players outside of the Big Three to have won multiple grand slam titles in the past decade. The other is Stan Wawrinka.
“Andy, I think I agree with Goran. He’ll do well at the Slams and I think that he’ll be competitive, but to win a major that is hard enough when you’re healthy,” Rusedski weighed in on the debate.
“He’s the only British man to win an ATP tour event this year as well, that just shows what an amazing competitor he is and his desire to actually come back.
“Most people, wouldn’t be accomplishing what he’s done. It’s up there, from an emotional point of view and a satisfaction point of view, with his major trophies.”
Throughout his comeback, Murray has been grounded when it comes to his expectations for the future. Earlier this month, he said he was relieved to be entering into the 2020 with no hip issues and downplayed his chances in the upcoming Australian Open. A tournament he is a five-time runner-up at.
“I was asked what would be a success in Australia, and I don’t know how I’ll perform.” he said.
“I’m not expecting to win the tournament, but if I can play a five-set match and get through and have no ill effects on the hip … that’s success.”
However, Tim Henman notes that those dismissing Murray’s grand slam hopes could motivate him more. Describing him as ‘somebody who loves to prove people wrong.’ Henman will be alongside Murray in his first tournament of 2020 after being appointed captain of the British team in the ATP Cup.
Murray ended 2019 with a win-loss record of 13-8.
