Tennis Today: Andy Murray urged to fight on and fresh doubts expressed over Rafael Nadal fitness

Tennis Today
Rafael Nadal confused following defeat to Andy Murray in Madrid

In Tennis Today, Andy Murray given hope of an injury-free career while Rafael Nadal’s career predicted to become an injury-plagued nightmare. A week in a long time in tennis.

What’s on the site
We had an exclusive interview with Eurosport host Matt Smith, who discussed, among other things, the current Andy Murray situation.

Speaking of Murray, he has been offered a ‘miraculous’ solution to his hip problem that a top surgeon believes will not only get him back on tour, but also get him back to his very best.

If images of tennis players going crazy with rage are your thing, then Monday’s Australian Open gallery is not to be missed.

And if you’re looking at the Australian Open and hoping to make a little cash, we have a betting preview for week two for you.

What’s in the news
Boris Becker has urged Andy Murray to have hip surgery to try to extend his career, or he may regret it for the rest of his life.

“I really like Andy, I know him well, but I really wish he’s not forced [to retire] because of an injury. I think that’s the worst for an athlete,” he said, as quoted on Sky Sports.

“So if there’s a possibility medically to get better so he can finish on his own terms, I think it’s vital for him and maybe the rest of his life. Because you will have a big chip on your shoulder.

“I’ve seen other athletes that have been forced out of their sport they love because of injury.

“Yes he’s been fighting it for 18 months and he’s tried everything, but we’re in 2019, there are new treatments for every type of injury, you just have to find the right doctors.”

“He was number one in the world when he stopped 18 months ago and that’s not an eternity so, when fit, he’s one of the best. It’s a question of time. If he gets treated the right way, in my opinion, then he can come back and play some good matches.”

Meanwhile, Annabel Croft has cast more doubts over Rafael Nadal’s fitness.

Giving an exclusive to The Express, she said: ““I think it is always lurking beneath the surface and he has been really unlucky.

“I think the fitter you are the most prone you are to injuries because your muscles are stretched to your limits because you’re pushing them so hard all the time.

“I think it is something that will be lurking beneath the surface physically and mentally as well.

“It is always a worry because at this event last year he had to pull put against Marin Cilic.

“He has had quite a few situations where injuries have prevented him.”

What’s on social media

Alexander Zverev leaves a hotel dressing like he’s going to an interview…

… and Pat Cash turns up for an interview dressed like he’s leaving a hotel.

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This is the way to dress for @channel9 interviews in the Melbourne heat #ausopen2019

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Gael Monfils shows his ruthless side to Nick Kyrgios.

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@iamgaelmonfils I thought we were brothers 😓

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If you’re looking for creative captions, Karolina Pliskova is probably not the right follow for you…

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On a boat 🛥 😎

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What’s on TV
Australian Open is still exclusively on Eurosport, generally from midnight GMT to 2pm.

Andy Murray Rafael Nadal

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