Australian Open 2018: Andy Murray ready to give up world no 1 ranking just to play again

What's the story?

The Australian Open 2018 has already reached its crucial stages with Round of 16 matches about to begin. The tournament features some of tennis' greatest ever performers with Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer leading the way.

The tournament is however, without the services of former world number one Andy Murray. The Scotsman was forced to withdraw from the event following recurring injury problems. If his Twitter post is anything to go by, he surely regrets missing out on all the action.

I can tell you sitting on a couch right now whilst the @AustralianOpen is in that I would give back being number 1 in the world just to be back playing on the court again.. Passion is much higher than it was then.

— Andy Murray (@andy_murray) January 20, 2018

In case you didn't know...

Andy Murray became world number one following a slew of incredible results that saw him win the US Open and the Wimbledon title. Murray also appeared in five Australian Open finals, but couldn't win the grand slam.

The heart of the matter

Being former world number one may have been a massive moment in Murray's career, but he clearly isn't considering it to be the most important as his reply to the question suggests. Fans were quick to chime in with their own support for the Scottish star as he looks to come back from injury.

Be patient, Andy. You will come back with your mobility fully restored and you will once again be a force at the top of the game. You don’t need to give back No.1 or anything else. Your best tennis years are ahead of you.

— ebergan (@EberganEpbjr) January 20, 2018

We hope you get back on the court soon. You’re missed.

— DMA (@TennisMajesty) January 20, 2018

Forget No 1, trophy’s are what you want.. big year ahead CMON ANDY 🤟

— Paul Love (@PaulLov49334894) January 20, 2018

See you soon Andy :)

— Rajeshwaran P (@Dumangole) January 20, 2018

One especially logical fan even joked about Murray being better off on a couch than baking in the sweltering Melbourne heat.

andy look at the silver lining, you’re lucky to be out of that 39 degrees heat!

— aana (@aponeurotic) January 20, 2018

Needless to say, the knighted tennis star received unanimous support from tennis fans around the globe.

What's next?

As Murray recuperates, he'll be hoping he can be fit in time to play the next few ATP tour matches in preparation for the next grand slam, the French Open.

Author's take

Andy Murray's absence from the Australian Open is certainly a big blow to tennis fans, but one can only imagine what effect it has had on the payer who has repeatedly reached the finals of the tournament but hasn't quite got the job done. The frustration is pretty obvious.