‘I DON’T KNOW IF I CAN GO ON’

ANDY MURRAY fought back tears after winning the first match of his latest comeback – then confessed he does not know how long he can keep playing.

The former world No.1 overcame world No.234 James Duckworth 6-3

6-4 at the Brisbane International.

But the Scot, who underwent hip surgery last January after limping out of Wimbledon in 2017, then threw further doubt on his long-term future. “It’s been a really hard 18 months, a lot of ups and downs,” he said in his courtside interview. “It was tricky just to get back on the court competing, so I’m happy I am back. “I want to enjoy playing tennis as long as I can. I don’t know how much longer it’s going to last, but we’ll see.” He admitted before his return Down Under that he still felt pain in the joint and he struggled during his 88-minute victory, especially wide on his forehand.

But Murray, 31, later sounded more positive at his press conference. “I thought I did quite well,” he said. “I was nervous, but I like nerves. I don’t feel apprehensive about my hip. Today I didn’t really think about it at all.

“I was in a little bit of discomfort, but I didn’t feel the hip on any movements for shots.”

He now faces Daniil Medvedev as he continues his build-up to the Australian Open, which starts on January 14.

“It kills me I’ve not been able to be there competing,” he added. “The top three spots in the rankings are still taken by the same guys. Hopefully I will get a few chances in the coming months to play against them again.”