Inspired by the master
triumphs came after he was written off, such as his first heavyweight world title win over Sonny Liston in 1964 and the epic Rumble in the Jungle with George Foreman a decade later.
Murray will also be the underdog today as he takes on world No. 1 Novak Djokovic on the red clay of Paris, his weakest surface.
But Ali ’s inspirational words will resonate more than ever as the boy from Dunblane bids to seal his third Grand Slam title.
When asked earlier in his career about how he prepares for big games, Mur ray said: “I prefer listening to guys like Ali. That’s inspiring.
“It’s more the things that they went through, the way that they were. That’s what I really enjoy watching before I play or nights before my matches.
“I’ve watched so many of his fights, as well as loads of documentaries and read quite a bit about him.
“He is one of the most entertaining sportsmen ever. He went through a lot, with racism and refusing to go to the army.
“I love Ali for what he stood for outside of the ring as much as in it.
“He transcended the sport and stuck to what he believed in passionately.
“His career fascinates me – he’s one of the greatest boxers and sportsmen of all time. I’m a huge boxing fan and I’ll watch obscure fights from around the world.
“I’d love to get to meet him one day. I’ve never had the opportunity but he’d be No.1 on my list.”
Sadly, that wish will now remain unfulfilled. But he can put on a show worthy of the great man today and make Scotland proud.