Murray drops 690 places in world rankings

ANDY MURRAY has dropped to 839 in the latest world rankings – a fall of 690 places – after he pulled out of Wimbledon.

The 31-year-old had hip surgery in January after being out of action since last year’s Wimbledon. He has only played three matches since then, winning one at Eastbourne last month.

Murray is due to return to action at the Citi Open, which starts in Washington on July 30.

He also hopes to play Masters level events in Toronto and Cincinnati before the US Open, which begins on August 27.

Murray, who is now languishing 23rd in the British rankings, will be able to enter the Masters events under the exemption available to players coming back from long-term injury.

His current position in the rankings sees him alongside part-time US College and Challenger Tour players.

Yesterday’s latest standings continued to undervalue Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic, who is still languishing at No 10 as a result of his absence for six of the past 12 months.

Spain’s Rafael Nadal gap at the top of the table has widened over number two Roger Federer. Beaten Wimbledon finalist Kevin Anderson is now eighth.

Serena Williams has returned to the women’s top 30 after reaching the Wimbledon final.

The American, 36, has risen 153 places to 28th despite losing to Angelique Kerber in only her fourth tournament since giving birth 10 months ago.

Simona Halep is still No 1, ahead of Caroline Wozniacki and Sloane Stephens.