With Andy Murray‘s formal retirement, the BBC studio at the Paris Olympics became silent, and a clearly emotional Clare Balding almost stopped broadcasting.
Dan Evans defeated Murray in the men’s doubles quarterfinals on Thursday at Roland-Garros, with Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul winning 6-2 6-4.
Balding, who frequently covers Wimbledon for the BBC, broke down in tears when it was announced that Murray was retiring.
“That concludes his professional playing career,” Balding declared. Now that it is ended, all we can say is thank you. I’m grateful. (becomes tearful), you ought to say anything!
Balding was then handed a box of tissues as she wiped away tears, before resuming her presenting duties, next to swimmer Rebecca Adlington in the studio.
Murray will surely go down as one of the best – if not the best – Great British sportsman of all time and plans are already being made to honour his legacy.
The Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) issued a statement as soon as Murray played his last professional match, announcing that a court will be named after him.
"I think you better say something." 😭
Clare Balding paid an emotional tribute to Andy Murray after he played the final match of his career ❤
#Olympics #Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/IkWwJoylpW
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) August 1, 2024
‘The LTA has today paid tribute to the incredible career of Andy Murray following his retirement from professional tennis,’ they said.
‘Born on May 15, 1987, Murray burst to prominence winning the 2004 US Open junior singles title and the following summer, made his Tour-level debut as a wild card entrant reaching the third round of both Queens and Wimbledon, captivating the attention of the nation, where he has firmly remained during the last two decades.
‘Andy set many records during arguably the most competitive era in men’s tennis, including winning three Grand Slam singles titles, two Olympic Gold medals, leading his country to Davis Cup success and achieving the world No.1 ranking.
‘The LTA is committed to working with Andy and the Murray family to ensure that his career is suitably recognised. As part of this the LTA have committed £5m to support Judy Murray’s plans to build a tennis centre of national significance for Scotland at the Park of Keir, near Dunblane.
‘The LTA is also working with Government and other partners in ensuring Andy’s achievements and his legacy will benefit future generations for years to come.
‘More immediately the LTA is today announcing that from 2025 the centre court seating arena at the LTA’s London Championships held at The Queen’s Club will be known as ‘The Andy Murray Arena’.
‘Andy has a special relationship with the tournament, having won the event more than any other in his career, and more times than any other player in the Championships’ 123-year history.
‘The new name for the arena will be used at both the WTA 500 and ATP 500 events to be held at the venue from 2025.’