Murray out of Brisbane, future uncertain

The uncertain health of the top players on the ATP Tour is not only concerning for the players themselves.

It also is wreaking havoc with the Australian Open warmup season – especially if the player pulls out after the draw is made.

That’s the case with Andy Murray, who withdrew from the Brisbane International Tuesday.

Murray had travelled from London, to Abu Dhabi, to Brisbane as he intended to honor his commitment to the tournament and get a tuneup event under his belt before the first Grand Slam of the season.

He did practice, including with Canadian Milos Raonic, and played some practice sets.

But he didn’t hit Tuesday, ahead of his scheduled second-round match against American Ryan Harrison. (Murray had a first-round bye, as the No. 2 seed).

And then … he was out.

Very, very disappointed

“I’m very disappointed. I came here with every intention of making a strong start to the year but sadly my team and I don’t feel that I’m where I need to be just yet to compete at the highest level,” Murray said.

In a Facebook post, Murray was much more expansive. And although he has done everything he can to avoid surgery on what has now become a chronic hip issue, he seems to be at the point where he’s considering it – even if, as he points out, there is no guarantee of a successful outcome.

Not to mention, the amount of time it will take to rehab and return to play.

Murray knows all about this, after coming back post back surgery a few years ago.

One thing is for sure, he’s really, really missing the competition.

Also – that photo is the cutest.

Lucky loser Yannick Hanfmann will replace Murray, jumping straight into the second round.