Emma Raducanu Says Andy Murray Was Her Hero Growing Up

Emma Raducanu offered high praise for Andy Murray's influence on her.

Emma Raducanu called Andy Murray her hero. / Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports

Earlier this month, Andy Murray had to retire after one set in the second round of the Queen's Club Championships. Less than three days later, he underwent a surgical procedure to address a spinal cyst.

Murray has made it known that this is likely the final stretch of his legendary career. That means tennis players and fans are eager to watch the 37-year-old compete for the last time.

Many of Murray's peers on the ATP tour grew up watch him, and some greatly looked up to the British player. That includes 21-year-old Emma Raducanu, who has also recently fought back from injuries.

Raducanu told the Wimbledon Press that she looked up to Murray when she was growing up, even considering him a hero.

"I'm very happy to see him here. When I think of Wimbledon, I think of Andy. Because growing up, that was the generation, the hero that I would look up to. I think it just feels right. I really hope that Tuesday or whenever he's playing, that he's on the match court."

Emma Raducanu says Andy Murray was the hero she looked up to when she was growing up:

“I’m very happy to see him here. When I think of Wimbledon, I think of Andy. Because growing up, that was the generation, the hero that I would look up to. I think it just feels right. I really… pic.twitter.com/ecRN67FKcb

— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) June 29, 2024

Murray underwent back surgery on June 22, and the recovery period usually lasts at least six weeks.

However, the three-time Grand Slam Champion told ESPN he wished to play Wimbledon one last time. "I feel that I deserve the opportunity to give it until the very last moment to make that decision," said Murray.

Murray's last appearance at Wimbledon starts on Tuesday against Tomas Machac. Meanwhile, Raducanu faces Ekaterina Alexandrova on Monday. Tennis fans can follow Sports Illustrated's Serve on SI for all the most important news from the sport.

Further Reading: Novak Djokovic explains why he rushed back to play Wimbledon.