TAME, SET & MATCH

Muzza admits career nears end after ‘flat’ demoralising defeat

ANDY MURRAY admitted the end of his career is nigh after a “flat” defeat at the Australian Open – and he could quit as early as this summer.

The Scot, who turns 37 in May, lost in straight sets to Argentina’s world No.32 Tomas Martin Etcheverry (right).

Murray said before the start of the season that this could be his last if he is again dogged by injuries.

But after this humbling defeat he may well call time even sooner with Wimbledon, the Paris Olympics or the US Open – scene of his first Grand Slam victory in 2012 – the choices for his farewell.

Murray, who lost 4-6 2-6 2-6, said: “I have an idea of where I would like to finish playing. But so much of that depends on how you’re playing.

“The time frame for that narrows when you play, and have results, like today. Look, I know that Tomas is a really, really good player. I’m aware of that. Even if I play well today I can still lose the match. It’s just the nature of the performance that makes you question things.

“I haven’t gained belief from today’s match that at some stage I’m going to start playing really well again or winning tournaments or getting to the latter stages of major events.”

The world No.44 has now lost four matches in a row, dating back to October, and seven of his last eight – the worst run of his career.

Asked if he will consult his family and coaching team before making a decision, the threetime Grand Slam champion (right) added: “I’ve spoken to them about it. It’s not like it isn’t something that’s been on my mind. I haven’t made any definite decisions on that. It’s obviously something that I need to think about and see exactly when that is.” Murray has generally performed consistently at Melbourne Park, losing finals here to Novak Djokovic ( four times) and Roger Federer (2010).

“It’s a definite possibility that will be the last time I play here,” he said. “I don’t know. While you’re playing the match you’re trying to control your

emotions and focus on the points. When you’re one point away from the end, you’re like: ‘I can’t believe this is over so quickly.’ I wish I had involved the crowd more. I’m just disappointed with the way I played. It’s a tough, tough way to finish.”

Eurosport analyst Tim Henman hinted that he feels Murray should call it quits.

“I think it was a painful watch – he looked lost on and off the court,” the former British No.1 said.

“It was sad to hear him in the press conference so down and with very little explanation. It’s difficult when you’re 36 and you’ve achieved what he has (to lose like that).

“You want to see him enjoying himself on court and reaping the rewards of all the hard work he puts in on the practice court and in the gym and on the track.

“He needs to go away, analyse things with his team and his family, and decide where he wants to go next.”