What happened to Andy Murray’s back and his upcoming surgery explained

ANDY Murray is hoping recover in time for Wimbledon and the Olympics in the twilight of his career, having said they could be his last tournaments before retirement.

He’s undergoing back surgery just NINE days before the action kicks off at the All England Club on July 1, 2024.

What happened to Andy Murray’s back?

The British tennis icon, 37, suffered a back injury during Queen’s on June 19.

He was barely able to move in awkward and distressing scenes in his last-16 clash with Australian Jordan Thompson.

And after receiving a medical time-out, the world No129 retired hurt trailing 4-1 in the first set before emotionally waving goodbye to the Queen’s crowd.

What procedure is Andy Murray having?

With just over a week to go until the first day of Wimbledon, Murray is going under the knife on June 22 to try and fix the issue with his back.

It is understood to be a minor procedure, and the Scot’s team are due to give an update as soon as the op is done.

The former world No1 remains hopeful of being fit enough to take to the court at Wimbledon in what is expected to be his final appearance at the event.

In hindsight, I wish I hadn’t gone on the court

Andy Murray

Two-time singles champion Muzza has also entered the doubles with older brother Jamie.

The double Olympic gold medalist has then earmarked Paris 2024 as potentially his final event before hanging up his racquet and retiring.

All England Club chiefs revealed plans are in place to honour Murray should he confirm his retirement.

What has Andy Murray said about his back pain?

Speaking after withdrawing from Queen’s, Murray admitted he regretted even stepping on to court — before detailing the lower back pain.

He said: “When I walked up the stairs before going out, and in the pre-match warm-up, my back was uncomfortable.

“It was an awkward atmosphere because everyone could see there was a problem and I didn’t know if I should play or stop. It’s disappointing.

“In hindsight, I wish I hadn’t gone on the court.”

Murray added: “I have neural pain across my lower back.

“It’s a nerve-type sort of discomfort. It’s been pretty uncomfortable and today was just a numbness and loss of strength, power and control.

“Like all tennis players, we have degenerative joints and stuff in the back but it’s all predominantly been left-sided for me my whole career.

“I have never had too many issues with the right side. So maybe there is something that can be done between now and then to help the right side.”

A statement from Murray’s management released on June 21 read: “Andy is having a procedure on his back tomorrow.

“We will know more after this has taken place and will update further as soon as possible.”