Three-time Grand Slam champion, Andy Murray has withdrawn from the Australian Open due to an ongoing hip problem. The five-time finalist is set to fly back to the United Kingdom having said he would "assess all the options" on the injury after floating the possibility of surgery earlier this week.
"Sadly I won't be playing in Melbourne this year, as I am not yet ready to compete," Murray said. "I'll be flying home shortly to assess all the options but I appreciate all the messages of support and I hope to be back playing soon."
Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley added: "We are fully aware that Andy has been going through a difficult period with his hip and that he's done everything possible to prepare for the Australian summer.
Murray unsure if he'll ever get back to his best - but he doesn't care
"Personally, I also know that Andy loves tennis and would do anything to play. This is a very hard decision for Andy and we totally respect it.
"We wish him the absolute best on his road to recovery and look forward to having him back in Melbourne. He is a true champion and one of our favourites."
The Scot released a statement on his social media pages on Tuesday where he admitted he was considering surgery to assess the problem, though his preference is to continue rehab and hope that prompts a recovery.
Murray has not played a competitive match since Wimbledon and pulled out of the warm-up tournament in Brisbane earlier this week.
