Barty's refusal to team up with Murray 'the hardest decision'
French Open 2019 champion Ashleigh Barty has refused an offer from Andy Murray to team up with him at the Wimbledon. Murray had confirmed earlier that he will be participating in both the doubles and mixed doubles at the Wimbledon next month. Barty, who refused the offer, opened up on her decision. Notably, Barty won her maiden slam in 2019.
The rationale behind Barty's decision to reject Murray's offer
Barty, who will be vying for her maiden singles Wimbledon trophy, is already playing women's doubles with Victoria Azarenka at the All England Club. Therefore, partnering Murray would have made the work load intense. "I took some time to think about it, and playing three events is just a little bit too much," said Barty.
It was the hardest decision: Barty
"When Andy texted me asking me to play, I was a little bit shocked. Obviously I would have loved to have grabbed the opportunity to play with Andy, and I think it was the hardest decision I have ever had to make" admitted the youngster.
Murray to team up with Herbert in men's doubles
Murray, who made a stunning return post a surgery, teamed up with Feliciano Lopez in the men's doubles at Queen's. The Scot confirmed that he will now partnering up with France's Pierre-Hugues Herbert at the Wimbledon doubles event.
Murray confident of finding someone in mixed doubles
In a column for the BBC, Murray stated that he is hopeful of finding another great partner. "It is a shame we can't play together because I want the best partner possible. I'm sure I will find another great partner, providing I feel good enough to play the men's and mixed doubles. That said, I need to wait and see how I'm feeling first."
Several women players have shown interest to partner Murray
Since Murray's mixed doubles story came to the fore, several tennis players have offered to team up with him. The likes of Kirsten Flipkens and Naomi Broady have all shown interest. Given, Murray's desire to excel and play at the top level, he will choosing his partner soon. For now, fitness will be his focus.
