Andy Murray to make singles return in Cincinnati

Andy Murray will make his singles return to the ATP Tour next week.

The former world No.1 has not played singles since an opening round loss at this year’s Australian Open.

After tearfully admitting that could have been his final tournament, Murray underwent hip surgery in a bid to save his career. He returned to the tour in June playing doubles, winning his first tournament alongside Spain’s Feliciano Lopez at Queen’s.

Five tournaments into his comeback, Murray has accepted a wildcard to compete in singles at the ATP Masters 1000 event in Cincinnati next week.

Cincy’s where the magic happens ?

See you in the singles draw, @andy_murray ???? pic.twitter.com/vtHASOcCzK

— Western & Southern Open (@CincyTennis) August 9, 2019

The 32-year-old Murray boasts a 31-11 win-loss record at the tournament, winning the title in 2008 and 2011.

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Murray had remained coy on his singles return date, telling media at last week’s ATP tournament in Washington he was not rushing the process.

“If I feel like I’m ready, I’ll give it a go,” he said.

Frenchman Richard Gasquet is his first-round opponent. Murray leads their head-to-head record 8-3, having won their past five matches in a streak that stretches back to 2012.

The winner will play world No.4 Dominic Thiem, who has an opening round bye.